Ajinomoto Empowers the Next Generation to Lead a Healthier Philippines through its Eat Well, Live Well Youth Summit

CHAMPIONS FOR A HEALTHIER PHILIPPINES. Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) executives join hands with officials from DepEd, DENR, and DA during the Eat Well, Live Well Youth Summit held in Tagaytay on January 31, 2026. The summit gathered 250 participants from CALABARZON to promote balanced nutrition and sustainable living. (L-R): Mika Makino (APC Director); Bea Menorca-de Jesus (APC Nutritionist);  Johnalen Aira S. Soberano (DepED); Ms. Eduarda Zapanta (DepED Supervisor); Kristoff Buyoc (APC Manager); Dr. Azucena Milana-Dayanghirang (Nutrition Expert); Koichi Ozaki (APC President); and Makoto Tanabe (APC Senior Vice President)

At its recent Eat Well Live Well Youth Summit, Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) reaffirmed its commitment to long-term social and environmental value creation. The event focused on the significance of sustainable practices, nutrition, and the ability of young people to effect change. 

The main focus of the 2026 Youth Summit for the CALABARZON youth, which took place in Tagaytay, was the straightforward but effective maxim “Eat Well, Live Well.” Ajinomoto is pushing young people to understand that eating pleasure shouldn't come at the expense of their health or the environment in a world of convenience.

“Ajinomoto is committed to building a network of Wellness Champions. The youth are the best influencers of their social circles and communities. When a student learns how to cook a “Veggielicious” meal or learns a mindful approach to food that minimizes waste and shares these with their loved ones and peers - that’s how we can spark change and create a healthier society.” ~Mr. Koichi Ozaki, APC President 

APC has conducted the Youth Summit in Mindanao, Visayas, and Luzon, interacting with youth from various towns and schools. The Department of Agriculture (DA), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and national and regional offices of the Department of Education (DepEd) all supported this.

APC’s CALABARZON Youth Summit was attended by: DepEd Chief Education Supervisor of the Education Support Services Division Ms. Eduarda Zapanta; DepEd Region IV-A Nutritionist-Dietician II Ms. Johnalen Aira S. Soberano; DENR Regional Community Development Officer Mr. Elbert Basallote; DA OIC- Field Operations Head Mr. Felix Joselito H. Noceda; and former National Nutrition Council Deputy Executive Director Dr. Azucena Milana-Dayanghirang. They all agreed that young people who are concerned about their diet and the environment will be responsible for the future of Philippine wellness.

Approximately 250 students from both public and private schools participated in thought-provoking panel discussions and stimulating educational exercises. APC’s Nutrition Advancement team spearheaded interesting talks about the fifth basic flavor, umami, as well as its work in encouraging vegetable consumption and understanding how umami seasoning or MSG may make nutritious food more appealing. 

The Ajinomoto Group's  "Too Good To Waste" program, on the other hand, was emphasized by APC's Sustainability team. This initiative included simple guidelines for conscious food consumption, such as eating more veggies, cooking them with umami, and reducing waste.

The summit culminated in a passionate Ceremonial Pledge, when students, instructors, and stakeholders expressed their commitment to the “Eat Well, Live Well” vision. 

“Today is the beginning of your journey as Champions. By integrating these mindful habits into your daily lifestyle, you are not only improving your own well-being but are also leading the change toward a more sustainable Philippines.” ~Mika Makino, APC Director

Mika Makino, the director of sales, marketing, and public relations at APC, urged the student delegates to be change agents as she wrapped up the session.

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. To learn more, visit www.ajinomoto.com.