Ajinomoto Full scholarship grant for master education in Japan

“The annual scholarship program is Ajinomoto’s way of giving back to empower the future of food technology and nutrition in the Philippines. Through the grant, APC aims to contribute more to resolving food and health issues in the Philippines, through innovations driven by its passionate scholars.” ~Roann Co, Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) General Manager of Corporate Planning and Public Relations

The Ajinomoto Postgraduate Scholarship Grant for 2025 is currently accepting applications from Filipino individuals aspiring to further their education in Japan. This initiative is designed to assist deserving candidates who need financial support for postgraduate studies in the areas of food technology and human nutrition. The application deadline is March 1, 2024.

A full scholarship in a master’s course at prestigious designated universities in Japan namely the University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Nagoya University, Institute of Science Tokyo, Ochanomizu University, Waseda University, and Kagawa Nutrition University. 

The scholarship grant will cover the candidate’s examination, admission and tuition fees, medical and psychological exams, Japanese language training, airfare, and monthly allowance. 

“I am very happy and thankful for this rare opportunity to study with a full scholarship in one of the most prestigious universities in the world. The Ajinomoto Foundation and Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation has always been consistent in providing me prompt support and guidance. This does not only provide me academic privileges but also allows me to learn new cultures, enjoy good food and make new friends.” ~Johndel Obra, 2023 Awardee who is currently taking Masters in Nuclear Engineering at the University of Tokyo

As screening process, the grant requires applicants to have excellent academic records - a graduate or expecting to graduate within the top 5% of their class or with a grade point (GPA) of 3.7 or higher. In return, the chosen scholar is sure to gain a lot from the program in terms of academics as well as life experiences. 

“When I was awarded with the 2022 Ajinomoto scholarship, I was very excited because Japan was my dream country to visit. Aside from its advanced technology and innovative research, I found a very welcoming and warm country that felt like a second home to me. The scholarship enabled me to be fully equipped in pursuing my current doctoral research program.” ~Ann Elaine Wagan, a BS Nutrition graduate and the 2022 Ajinomoto Scholarship Awardee now taking up PhD on Applied Biosciences at Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University

The annual scholarship program is one of Ajinomoto’s key efforts to enrich food science through supporting education advancement.  It is the company’s vision to contribute to greater wellness for people worldwide. 

To know more about the  2025 Ajinomoto Postgraduate Scholarship grant, visit https://www.ajinomoto.com.ph/whats-new-archive/2025-ajinomoto-foundation-postgraduate-scholarship-grant/

The Ajinomoto Group is a global company with specialties in the business of food and amino acids, guided by our leading-edge bioscience and fine chemical technologies.

Based on the corporate message “Eat Well, Live Well.”, we have been scientifically pursuing the possibilities of amino acids in supporting the healthy lives of people all around the world. We aim for future growth and continuous contribution to greater wellness by creating value through sustainable and innovative solutions for communities and society.

The Ajinomoto Group has offices in 36 countries and regions, and sells products in more than 130 countries and regions. In fiscal 2021, sales were 1.1149 trillion yen (8.73 billion U.S. dollars). To learn more, visit www.ajinomoto.com.

BPI champions sustainability, launches electric vehicle for employees

“In BPI, we believe that the first step to building a sustainable future is by starting within ourselves, within the organization. We are excited to roll out a more environment-friendly and sustainable shuttle service for our employees. This forms part of our mission to help build a better Philippines—one family, one community at a time.” ~TG Limcaoco, BPI President and CEO

BPI President and CEO TG Limcaoco and GET President Freddie Tinga (center) launched the electric vehicle service for BPI employees. With them are (from left): Severino Sumulong, GET Director of Legal Services; Frankie Endriga, GET Chief Operating Officer; Anthony Dy, GET Managing Director; Jaime Zobel Urquijo, BPI Director and Ayala Corporation Chief Sustainability and Risk Officer; Eugenio Mercado, BPI Head of Enterprise Operations; and Carlo Poblete, BPI Head of Facilities Services and Management.

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) has leased a new electric vehicle (EV) unit in a bid to gradually replace its old gas-powered fleet vehicles and curtail its greenhouse gas emissions and fuel consumption.

BPI has partnered with Global Electric Transportation (GET), a provider of EVs that use fast-charging lithium-ion batteries, to supply its new EV unit that will be used to provide free shuttle services for its employees travelling between BPI Buendia Center and MRT Buendia Station.

The EV could potentially reduce the Bank’s diesel consumption by 30,000 liters per year, which in turn will reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 40,000 kilograms of CO2 per year.

“We are glad to see that more companies are pushing for the use of EVs and starting to realize its positive impact not only on the environment but also on their bottom line. We are happy to partner with BPI and support their sustainability initiatives through our sustainable transport solutions.” ~Freddie Tinga, GET President

The EV features a wider body and plenty of passenger room for 30 people compared with traditional shuttles that can only accommodate and ferry up to 15 passengers at a time.

The electric vehicle will provide free shuttle service to BPI employees commuting to and from MRT Buendia Station and BPI Buendia Center. Soon, it will add another stop at One Ayala Terminal.

In terms of social inclusivity, the EV has a wheelchair ramp that allows persons with disabilities (PWDs) to easily board and alight the vehicle. The ramp also allows easier boarding for people carrying bikes and other wheeled items. 

The EV also harnesses an intelligent fleet management system, with features such as GPS tracking, route optimization, and maintenance alert which can be accessed through the GETPASS App.

BPI and GET executives host an inaugural ride of the electric vehicle.

The initiative mirrors BPI’s commitment to sustainability and continuous efforts to cultivate and entrench a sustainability mindset within the organization.

In 2023, BPI won 14 ESG-focused awards from foreign and Philippine award-giving bodies, including Finance Asia, Global Finance, The Asset, and Asiamoney. In 2022, the Bank also won 10 sustainability-themed awards. 

Meet the herd in new Crazy Carabao packaging

Crazy Carabao’s newest craft beer packaging blends vibrant colors inspired by Filipino culture

Crazy Carabao may have already been around for almost a decade, solidifying its position as a major player in the Philippines’ craft beer industry, but it proves that it’s a brand that continues to innovate and evolve as it has introduced new distinctive styles of beers complemented by a more attractive packaging that pays homage to its Filipino roots.

In addition to its fantastic taste, each bottle of Crazy Carabao beer now features a single vibrant color, radiating energy through sunrays and adorned with symbols of Filipino culture like the Chocolate Hills, jeepneys, butanding, and more. This new packaging pays homage to the brand's roots in the Philippines.

To cater to the diverse preferences of the Filipino market, Crazy Carabao has introduced a new flavor to its product lineup: Newtons Noggin Apple Cider, designed for those who relish fruity and refreshing tones with a subtle kick. This addition complements Crazy Carabao's existing product range, including the Pilsner with notes of toasted malt, dry hops infused with bergamot zest, and lemongrass.

The lively and citrus-infused Wheat variety is enriched with coriander seeds and a gentle dose of hops, revealing nuanced hints of citrus and clove, accompanied by scents of orange and banana esters. The Pale Ale boasts a robust bitterness paired with a blend of citrus and pine hops, along with crystal malt, delivering a bold beer experience.

For those seeking a lighter option, the Golden Pale is brewed with a well-balanced combination of pale malt and Australian hops. Finally, the India Pale Ale caters to those craving a bold and aromatic brew, featuring intense tropical fruit notes from various North American hops and substantial British malts that offer upfront sweetness followed by a refreshing bitter finish.

To make it easier for beer lovers to find Crazy Carabao, the brand has also updated its website featuring a more vibrant design, with pages that are easier to navigate and, most importantly, a Beer Finder feature so they can check out the nearest outlets that sell Crazy Carabao – from bars, restaurants, groceries and stores around the country. 

Currently, Crazy Carabao is available in top bars and restaurants across Metro Manila, including  most of the 5-star hotels in the country and in all the main retailers such as S&R, The Marketplace, Landers Superstore, as well as in  Lazada, Shopee, and many other top online stores.

To know more about Crazy Carabao, visit https://crazycarabao.ph/ and follow its socials: Facebook and Instagram. 

Pepsi Unveils the Bold and Different Pepsi Zero Sugar Lime

Quench your thirst with a unique twist as Pepsi unveils its latest creation: the New Pepsi Zero Sugar Lime – a genuinely flavorful, daring, and distinctive beverage! This exciting addition to the Pepsi lineup brings a burst of tangy lime to enhance your soda experience. Embodying the bold and distinctive essence of the new Pepsi Zero Sugar Lime is the charismatic actor and influencer, Donny Pangilinan.

What sets Pepsi Zero Sugar Lime apart is its guilt-free indulgence, providing all the flavors without any added sugar. It's not just about what it lacks; it's about the delightful addition it brings. The delightful infusion of lime adds a zesty twist, crafting a lively, fruity, and flavorful profile that is sure to make it an immediate favorite.

To add more flavor to the mix, Pepsi encourages you to be part of the revolution. Share your bold and different moments with Pepsi Zero Sugar Lime using the hashtags #PepsiMasMasarapMaiba and #PepsiZeroSugarLime. Whether you're sipping it at a party or incorporating it into your daily routine, let the world know that your taste buds have taken a leap into the future of flavor.

Ready to be part of the taste revolution? Pepsi Zero Sugar Lime is now accessible in 320ml cans and is ready for purchase at major supermarkets and official online shops of PepsiCo. Don't just sip it – immerse yourself in the distinctive and daring flavor endorsed by Donny Pangilinan. Take your soda enjoyment to the next level – grab your Pepsi Zero Sugar Lime today!

About Pepsi Philippines

Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI) is the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages & snacks in the Philippines, with a relationship spanning 70 years. PCPPI manufactures and sells well-known food and beverage brands: Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, 7-Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Tropicana, Lipton, Sting, Premier, Sips, Milkis, Let’s Be and Aquafina. It has established 14 manufacturing facilities across the country, serving more than 700,000 outlets and providing employment through its extensive distribution network.

 

PCPPI is committed to create a positive impact on society with programs focused on environmental sustainability, nutrition, education, and livelihood. For more information, visit www.pepsiphilippines.com.

Acer Refreshes Predator Helios Gaming Laptops with Intel Core 14th Gen Processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 Series Laptop GPUs

“We are excited to unveil the new Predator Helios gaming laptop lineup for 2024, offering the combination of performance, advanced thermal capabilities, and brilliant displays. Powered by Intel Core (14th Gen) HX-Series processors, the laptops’ capabilities are pushed further and are ready to take on new gaming adventures that lie ahead.” ~James Lin, General Manager, Notebooks at Acer Inc.

Acer also announced the new Predator Helios Neo 18 and Helios Neo 16 with the latest processors and GPUs for AI-enhanced graphics and features.

Editor’s Summary

• Acer’s latest Predator Helios laptops are equipped with Intel® Core™ 14th gen processors, NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 40 Series GPUs with DLSS 3.5, and 5th Gen AeroBlade™ 3D fan technology for demanding gaming sessions.   
• The Predator Helios gaming laptops come in 16 and 18-inch versions along with the latest in-demand gaming features; Mini LED display options, patented MagKey 3.0  swappable mechanical keyboard switch, and Wi-Fi 7 support.
• New Predator Helios Neo 18 and Predator Helios Neo 16 gaming laptops combine cutting-edge components and brilliant graphics on WQXGA displays, and invite gamers to dive deep into the Predator Verse by deciphering the code on their abyssal-black anodized cover

Acer unleashes a series of powerhouse gaming laptops, headlined by the refreshed models of the Predator Helios 18 and Predator Helios 16. Acer also announced the new Predator Helios Neo 18 gaming laptop and major updates to the Predator Helios Neo 16, all outfitted with the latest Intel® Core™ 14th gen processors and NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 40 Series Laptop GPUs with DLSS 3.5 technology and NVIDIA Advanced Optimus. NVIDIA RTX Laptop GPUs are packed with specialized AI Tensor Cores enabling unmatched AI performance and accelerations in creative apps, ultra-efficient productivity, blistering fast gaming, and more. The Predator laptops feature Microsoft’s Copilot in Windows 11 and a dedicated Copilot key for quick access to AI-powered task assistance. They also come with one month of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, giving gamers access to hundreds of high-quality PC games.

Gamers seeking a competitive edge will be thrilled with the Predator Helios 18 and Predator Helios 16 laptops as they come with options for captivating Mini LED panels, MagKey 3.0 swappable mechanical switch for shorter key travel and response time, and lightning-fast network speeds with Wi-Fi 7 compatibility. 

Along with the top gaming specs and features, the pair of new Helios Neo laptops entice enthusiasts to embark on another adventure to the Predator verse by decoding the hidden messages on their sleek anodized covers. All the gaming laptops leverage 5th Gen AeroBlade™ 3D fan technology to keep the laptops cool under pressure, Acer’s PurifiedVoice™ 2.0 AI-noise reduction technology to eliminate unwanted background noise, and speakers with DTS:X® Ultra for immersive audio experiences when playing, communicating, or streaming. 

“The new Acer Predator Helios is a beautiful laptop that truly unleashes the performance of our new Intel Core (14th Gen) HX-Series processors. Acer’s advanced cooling technologies keep our processors cool and running fast, combined with a great selection of display, memory, and storage options that make the Predator Helios 16 and 18 a great choice for gamers and creators.” ~Roger Chandler, VP & GM Enthusiast PC & Workstation at Intel

Predator Helios 18 and Predator Helios 16 Laptops 

Acer’s performance-focused gaming laptops come with the latest processors and superb features, empowering gamers to reach their full potential when in-game. With up to an Intel Core i9 processor 14900HX that features newly optimized performance hybrid architecture, the Predator Helios 18 (PH18-72) and Predator Helios 16 (PH16-72) let users go head-to-head with today’s most demanding games and software without compromise. Video game realms appear as realistic as ever on the AI-ready gaming laptops, powered by up to an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 Laptop GPU (MGP up to 175 W[2]) designed with the ultra-efficient NVIDIA ADA Lovelace architecture to deliver breakthrough performance and AI-enhanced graphics thanks to DLSS 3.5 technology’s full ray tracing capabilities. GeForce RTX technologies are supported in more than 500 popular games and applications, including blockbuster games such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Alan Wake 2. Acer’s advanced thermal solutions keep the devices and internals running at full steam, driven by dual 5th Gen AeroBlade fans combined with liquid metal thermal grease on the CPU and vector heat pipes. 

Players will be fully engaged when exploring gaming realms on the Helios laptops’ impressive displays, illuminated with remarkable brightness and vivid colors. The laptops offer options of 16 and 18-inch (16:10) WQXGA or Mini LED panels that operate at a rapid 250 Hz, support brilliant 1000 nits luminosity, and 100% DCI-P3 color gamut for exceptional visual experiences. The mesmerizing show of color extends beyond its screens, showcasing dynamic RGB lighting effects on the laptops’ Predator logos, backside Infinity Mirror lighting bar, and customizable LED backlit keyboards. Lighting effects and colors of the cover logos and per-key RGB can be customized using the latest all-in-one PredatorSense™ app, which also functions as the control and monitor center for the laptops’ performance mode and fan settings. 

The Predator Helios 16 and Predator Helios 18 laptops also come with the latest sensory technology features. New MagKey 3.0 has been installed on the laptops’ vital WASD buttons with two additional sets for customization included upon purchase. MagClick features a patented swappable mechanical switch that lets gamers enjoy the satisfying sounds of distinct mechanical tactile feedback and faster response time with every key press. Meanwhile, MagSpeed combines speedometer aesthetics with vibrant LED lighting underneath to add pleasing effects. For in-game communication and streams, the laptops leverage Acer PurifiedVoice 2.0’s triple microphone array and AI noise reduction technology to filter out unwanted background sounds, and Acer PurifiedView’s™ AI-powered webcam solution for clear video and image outputs. Immersive sounds can be amplified through the headphones and internal speakers embedded with DTS:X Ultra for high-quality and distortion-free audio. The Predator Helios laptops also ensure stable and fast network speeds with Wi-Fi 7 capability and each features two all-around USB Type-C Thunderbolt™ 4 ports and MicroSD™ card readers for added convenience.

Predator Helios Neo 18 and Helios Neo 16 Laptops

The all-new Predator Helios Neo 18 (PHN18-71) and Predator Helios Neo 16 (PHN16-72) come with the latest technology and features at more accessible price points, to power the gaming adventures of more casual and entry-level esports players. Known for their unique visual appearances, the Helios Neo laptops continue to showcase striking designs and distinctive details with laser-etched encrypted codes on their deep black anodized covers, enticing gamers to decipher the hidden messages and embark on an exhilarating journey to the Predator Verse. 

Powered by up to a newly optimized Intel Core i9 processor 14900HX paired with up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPUs[1] with maximum graphics power of 140 W[2] in Turbo mode, the Helios Neo gaming devices enable users to do more beyond gaming and creation. They also leverage smooth AI-driven graphic enhancements and accelerated system performance with DLSS 3.5 technology and full ray tracing. As an added boost, the laptops can be configured with up to 32 GB DDR5 5600 MHz memory and up to 2 TB PCIe Gen 4 solid state drives in RAID 0. The combination of 5th Gen AeroBlade 3D fan technology, liquid metal thermal grease on their CPUs, and vector heat pipes for efficient heat transfer ensures that the laptops’ maximum output is sustained throughout. 

On top of their impressive internals, the Helios Neo 18 and Helios Neo 16 laptops showcase stunning visuals on their WQXGA (2560 x 1600) IPS displays with 240 Hz refresh rates, 3 ms response time, and coverage for 100% DCI-P3 color range. Their panels come with NVIDIA Advanced Optimus and G-SYNC technology to dynamically increase frame rates and reduce latency based on loaded games and applications. Features such as dynamic lighting customization on the laptops’ 4-zone RGB keyboard and device management through the PredatorSense 5.0 utility app (with a dedicated PredatorSense Key) give users full control and allow them to add personal touches to their devices. The Helios Neo 18 and Helios Neo 16 laptops also utilize Acer’s AI-enhanced video conferencing tools in Acer PurifiedVoice 2.0 and Acer PurifiedView, while the powerful DTS:X Ultra surround sound speaker system elevates sounds generated when gaming, chatting, and leisure activities. They also come with Intel Killer DoubleShot™ Pro for lag-free connections, and a full range of ports including two USB Type-C with Thunderbolt 4 ports, an HDMI 2.1 port, and MicroSD card readers. 

 

Price and Availability

Exact specifications, prices, and availability will vary by region. To learn more about availability, product specifications and prices in specific markets, please contact your nearest Acer office via www.acer.com.

About Acer 

Founded in 1976, Acer is one of the world's top ICT companies with a presence in more than 160 countries. As Acer evolves with the industry and changing lifestyles, it is focused on enabling a world where hardware, software and services will fuse with one another, creating ecosystems and opening up new possibilities for consumers and businesses alike. Acer's 7,700 employees are dedicated to the research, design, marketing, sale, and support of products and solutions that break barriers between people and technology. Please visit www.acer.com for more information.

Palawan Express Pera Padala and Philippine Veterans Bank Seal Partnership for Cash Withdrawal Services

"Our partnership with the Philippine Veterans Bank is rooted in shared values of service, honor, and family. Together, we're committed to enhancing customer service, ensuring convenient access to funds, and ultimately, making a positive impact on the lives we touch. This collaboration embodies our dedication to supporting dreams, ambitions, and livelihoods." ~Lisa Lou Castro-Sabado, Palawan Group of Companies were Cash Management Solutions Director

Executives of the Palawan Group of Companies and  Philippine Veterans Bank  during their MOA signing.

Palawan Group of Companies, the country's leading money remittance & pawning services company, is delighted to declare its partnership with the Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB). PVB, a reliable institution committed to supporting veterans, their families, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines community, brings with it a rich tradition of financial prowess.

From Left; Renato Claravall, President and Acting CEO of Philippine Veteran's Bank ; Lisa Lou Castro-Sabado, Cash Management Solutions Director of the  From Palawan Group of Companies.

Through this partnership, both PVB depositors, Palawan Group of Companies sukis, and other BancNet ATM cardholders gain expanded access to cash withdrawal services using BancNet ATM cards initially at over 300 company-owned Palawan Pawnshop - Palawan Express Pera Padala branches, ensuring swift access to funds for a wide range of financial transactions. PVB depositors can conveniently utilize the extensive network, strategically located near residential areas, and have the flexibility to visit Palawan branches during holidays and weekends, enhancing accessibility for their convenience. This will enable ATM cardholders to do cash withdrawals from Palawan Pawnshop - Palawan Express Pera Padala branches with the use of Point-of-Sale (POS) terminals, commonly used for payroll and regular cash withdrawals, pension and 4Ps payouts. Both companies have plans to further increase the number of branches with POS terminals in the future.

At Your Service Executives and Officers of the Palawan Group of Companies and Philippine Veterans Bank  commit to providing excellent service for their customers

Both the Palawan Group of Companies and PVB  share a profound respect for the values of service, honor, and family. The Palawan Group of Companies’ mission has always been to serve and bridge families and friends through financial transactions helping to meet their daily needs, fund education, assist with medical needs and hospitalization, as well as build their dream houses and support in starting or expanding their businesses. PVB with its unwavering commitment to serving veterans, their families, and the entire Armed Forces of the Philippines community, has built a legacy of financial excellence.

(L-R) From Phil. Veterans Bank Charina Balanquit, FVP, Chief Digital Marketing Officer;  Geraldine Romano, VP, Head-Branch Banking Group Sales Center; Renato Claravall, President and Acting CEO;  From Palawan Group

The official contract signing ceremony took place at the head office of the Philippine Veterans Bank, attended by key executives from both organizations. Representing the Palawan Group of Companies were Cash Management Solutions Director Lisa Lou Castro-Sabado, Key Accounts Manager Rona Juan, and B2B Department Head Missy Baldemor while attendees from Philippine Veterans Bank included President and Acting CEO Renato Claravall, VP & Head of Branch Banking Group Sales Center Geraldine Romano, FVP and Chief Digital Marketing Officer Charina Balanquit,  and AVP and South Luzon Area Head, Julius Marquez.

“This service, in partnership with Palawan Pawnshop, will allow Veterans Bank to expand its network and customer touchpoints through the use of technology-based innovations. It will also enable the Bank to serve our clients in areas where we do not have branches, especially our veterans and their families.” ~Renato Claravall, Philippine Veterans Bank included President and Acting CEO

Palawan Pawnshop - Palawan Express Pera Padala and Philippine Veterans Bank join forces to expand cash withdrawal services

The partnership with the Philippine Veterans Bank is aligned with Palawan Express Pera Padala's commitment to improving accessibility and convenience for its valued sukis. The introduction of Cash Withdrawal withdrawal services in these branches represents a significant step toward improving financial inclusivity and the overall customer experience for Palawan sukis and depositors of the PVB.

ABOUT PALAWAN GROUP OF COMPANIES: 

The Palawan Group of Companies is composed of products and services such as Palawan Pawnshop, Palawan Express Pera Padala, Palawan ProtekTODO, Palawan Credit, and PalawanPay. A brand trusted by Filipinos for 38 years, PGC  is one of the fastest-growing financial institutions in the country.  With its strength in remittance and pawning services, the company is the market leader in the industry and has over 25,000 branches, Pera Padala outlets, and PalawanPay Money Shops nationwide.

Palawan Group of Companies offers pawnbroking services, domestic and international remittances, microinsurance, bills payment, electronic mobile phone loading, cash-in of e-wallets, money exchange, ATM withdrawal, and cash disbursements. 

Palawan Group of Companies recently introduced PalawanPay, an e-wallet app that lets you send and receive remittances anytime, anywhere. PalawanPay app is the company’s latest digital solution for faster, safer, and easier transactions and gives users access to other financial services such as bills payment, e-cellphone load, and scan to pay QRPH codes.

Palawan Pawnshop, Palawan Express Pera Padala, and PalawanPay are supervised by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. For more information, go to Palawan Pawnshop and PalawanPay Websites. 

Jollibee USA Opens First Store in the State of Michigan, USA!

“We are thrilled to be opening our first store in the state of Michigan, an important milestone in Jollibee’s accelerated North America growth strategy. As the 10th largest U.S. state in terms of population, there is a huge opportunity for Jollibee to grow and thrive with the local communities in Michigan. We’re excited to introduce the residents of Michigan to Chickenjoy and the Jollibee experience.” ~Ernesto Tanmantiong, President and Chief Executive Officer of Jollibee Group

FIRST IN MICHIGAN. Despite sub-zero weather in Sterling Heights, Detroiters flocked to witness the opening of Jollibee’s first location in the state of Michigan.

Situated at 44935 Woodridge Drive, facing Lakeside Mall in Detroit, which was Michigan's inaugural capital city, the noteworthy Jollibee establishment experienced an early halt to dine-in services due to inclement weather. Nevertheless, Jollibee Sterling Heights surpassed its anticipated opening-day sales, driven by a surge in orders from numerous hungry Detroit residents utilizing the store's dual-lane drive-thru.

Despite the freezing conditions in Sterling Heights, Michigan, the snow did not discourage Detroit residents, who remained undeterred and eagerly witnessed the highly anticipated debut of Jollibee's inaugural store in the state of Michigan.

“Despite the intense cold on the day of our opening, local Detroiters still came in droves to have a taste of our Jollibee favorites. We are truly grateful for their love and support. We look forward to seeing both familiar faces and first-time customers at our first Michigan location in the close-knit Sterling Heights community, where we can’t wait to create many new joyful moments for those who call the Detroit area home.” ~Maribeth Dela Cruz, President of Jollibee North America

Among Jollibee–Sterling Heights’ opening-day bestsellers include Jollibee’s signature crispy and juicy Chickenjoy fried chicken, Chicken Sandwich (both regular and spicy versions), and Peach Mango Pie.

A long line of people and cars flocked for the opening of Jollibee’s first location in Michigan state. Despite having to close the store early due to extreme weather conditions, Jollibee Sterling Heights was still able to exceed sales targets.

The Great Lakes State is officially the 14th U.S. state that Jollibee has reached in the market since it started its aggressive expansion effort in the region. Jollibee’s expansion in the market forms part of the Jollibee Group’s overall vision to be one of the top 5 restaurant companies in the world. For more information on the Jollibee Group, visit www.jollibeegroup.com.

About Jollibee Group 

Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC, also known as Jollibee Group) is one of the fastest-growing restaurant companies in the world. Its mission is to serve great-tasting food and bring the joy of eating to everyone through its 18 brands with over 6,800 stores across 34 countries including the Philippines, United States, Canada, the People's Republic of China, United Kingdom, Vietnam, United Arab Emirates, and Australia. 

The Jollibee Group has eight wholly owned brands (Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, Red Ribbon, Mang Inasal, Yonghe King, Hong Zhuang Yuan, Smashburger); four franchised brands (Burger King, Panda Express, and Yoshinoya in the Philippines, and Tim Ho Wan in certain territories in China); 80% ownership of The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf; 60% ownership in the SuperFoods Group that owns Highlands Coffee; and 51% ownership of Milksha, a popular Taiwanese bubble tea brand. JFC also has a business venture with award-winning Chef Rick Bayless for Tortazo, a Mexican fast-casual restaurant business in the United States.

The Jollibee Group, through its subsidiary Jollibee Worldwide Pte. Ltd. (JWPL) owns 92% participating interest in Titan Dining LP, a private equity fund that owns the Tim Ho Wan brand. The Jollibee Group has a joint venture with the THW Group to open and operate THW restaurants in Mainland China. Recently, the Jollibee Group has signed an agreement to establish a joint venture company that will own and operate Tiong Bahru Bakery and Common Man Coffee Roasters in the Philippines. 

The Jollibee Group has launched its global sustainability agenda dubbed Joy for Tomorrow, which aims to strengthen the company’s commitment to sustainable business practices. The agenda centers on the key pillars of Food, People, and Planet, and consists of 10 focus areas namely: food safety, food quality, nutrition & transparency, employee welfare, farmers livelihood, community support, good governance, packaging & recycling, waste reduction, and energy & water efficiency. Each focus area sets goals and initiatives that contribute and align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

The Jollibee Group was named the Philippines' most admired company by the Asian Wall Street Journal for ten years. It was also honored as one of Asia's Fab 50 Companies and among the World's Best Employers and World’s Top Female-Friendly Companies by Forbes. The company is also a two-time recipient of Gallup’s Exceptional Workplace Award, making it the only Philippine-based company to receive the distinction. 

To learn more about Jollibee Group, visit www.jollibeegroup.com