Ajinomoto Inspires Filipino Youth to Champion Health Nutrition and Sustainability
Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) strengthened its commitment to building a healthier and more sustainable nation by empowering the next generation of leaders at the Eat Well Live Well Youth Summit held in Tagaytay on January 31, 2026.
Bringing together around 250 student leaders and educators from public and private schools across CALABARZON, the summit highlighted the vital role of balanced nutrition, mindful eating, and environmental responsibility in shaping the future of the Philippines. With youth at the center of the conversation, APC emphasized that positive change begins with everyday food choices.
Themed around the simple yet meaningful philosophy Eat Well Live Well, the summit challenged young Filipinos to rethink modern eating habits. In an age of convenience, APC reminded participants that enjoying food should go hand in hand with taking care of one’s health and protecting the planet.
Ajinomoto Philippines President Koichi Ozaki underscored the company’s vision of nurturing Wellness Champions across the country. He shared that young people have the strongest influence within their families, schools, and communities. When students learn how to prepare nutritious meals, appreciate vegetables, and practice mindful food consumption, they inspire others to do the same and help build a healthier society.
The Youth Summit is part of APC’s nationwide initiative that has reached students in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. This ongoing effort is made possible through the support of the Department of Education and in collaboration with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Department of Agriculture.
The CALABARZON leg was attended by key leaders and advocates, including DepEd Chief Education Supervisor Eduarda Zapanta, DepEd Region IV A Nutritionist Dietician Johnalen Aira S. Soberano, DENR Regional Community Development Officer Elbert Basallote, DA OIC Field Operations Head Felix Joselito H. Noceda, and former National Nutrition Council Deputy Executive Director Dr. Azucena Milana Dayanghirang. All speakers shared a common message: the future of Philippine wellness depends on a nutritionally aware and environmentally responsible youth.
Participants took part in interactive discussions and hands-on learning sessions led by APC’s Nutrition Advancement team. Topics included the importance of the fifth basic taste, umami, and how it can make healthy food more enjoyable while encouraging greater vegetable consumption. Students also gained a better understanding of how umami seasoning, including MSG, can support nutritious and delicious home cooking.
Meanwhile, APC’s Sustainability team highlighted the Ajinomoto Group’s Too Good To Waste initiative. The session offered practical tips on reducing food waste, choosing vegetables more often, cooking efficiently, and making mindful decisions from the kitchen to the dining table.
The summit concluded with a meaningful ceremonial pledge, uniting students, teachers, and partners in their commitment to the Eat Well Live Well advocacy.
In her closing message, APC Sales Marketing and Public Relations Director Mika Makino urged the youth to take their learnings beyond the event. She encouraged them to apply these habits in daily life and to inspire others through action. By choosing to eat well and live well, she said, young Filipinos are not only improving their own well-being but also helping lead the country toward a healthier and more sustainable future.
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