Goldilocks Bakeshop Inc. was honored with the Halal Champion Excellence Award at the Prime Group Stakeholders Recognition and Gala Night held on January 29, 2026, at SO/Uptown Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.
The award was presented by Prime Group, a UAE-headquartered quality, compliance, and Halal certifying body operating across Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa. The distinction recognizes organizations that demonstrate sustained commitment to Halal integrity, food safety, and regulatory compliance.
Goldilocks was cited for maintaining strong quality assurance systems and consistently meeting internationally recognized Halal standards. The company recorded three consecutive years of achieving the highest compliance ratings under current standards governing Halal certification and food safety protocols.
The recognition places Goldilocks alongside other distinguished Philippine companies, reflecting the Philippines’ continued presence among regional leaders in Halal compliance.
The Prime Group Stakeholders Recognition and Gala Night gathers partners across industries to recognize leadership in quality management, compliance, and Halal governance.
For Goldilocks, the award underscores the role of disciplined compliance systems and continuous improvement in supporting responsible growth and expanding access to diverse markets.
Remember the first song you ever played on Spotify? Starting today, listeners can look back at the songs, artists, and moments that shaped their listening journey over the years.
As Spotify marks 20 years of music discovery, it is giving listeners something more personal than a celebration: “Spotify 20: Your Party of the Year(s),” a new global in-app experience that brings together each user’s listening milestones, from the day they first joined Spotify to the tracks that defined different moments of their lives.
The campaign celebrates the people who made Spotify part of their everyday moments—from heartbreak playlists and late-night soundtracks to road trip anthems, first loves, and favorite artists. Over the last two decades, Spotify has become part of how listeners discover, remember, express themselves, and connect through music.
Through the experience, users can unlock never-before-shared personal listening milestones and insights, including:
The exact date they joined Spotify
Their very first song streamed on the platform
Their all-time most-streamed artist
The total number of unique songs they’ve listened to across their entire Spotify history
Listeners will also receive a personalized All-Time Top Songs playlist featuring their 120 most-played tracks, complete with play counts and ready to be saved, revisited, and shared.
Designed to spark nostalgia and reflection, the experience also includes shareable social cards, allowing fans to celebrate their listening milestones with friends and communities online.
To mark the celebration, Spotify’s app icon will also temporarily transform into a limited-edition green disco ball on users’ home screens, a playful nod to the millions of listening journeys built on the platform over the last 20 years.
Start exploring your Spotify journey today by opening your Spotify app and searching “Spotify 20” or “Party of the Year(s),” or by heading to spotify.com/20 on mobile.
Mother’s Day doesn’t have to be extravagant to feel meaningful. More often than not, it’s the smallest acts that create the biggest impact.
If you’re still planning how to celebrate, Metrobank has curated a few simple ways to make the day feel special for the moms in your life, with added perks when you use any Metrobank credit card.
Start with something she’ll keep A well-chosen gift can say a lot, especially when it’s something she can return to every day. Jewelry remains a timeless option—not for its price, but for its meaning.
At Esotico Jewelry, you can enjoy 30% off on plain gold items with a minimum spend of PHP5,000, making it easier to find a piece she’ll treasure for years.
Whether it’s something simple or a bit more statement-making, the thought behind it is what she’ll remember.
Give her a moment to unwind Sometimes, the best gift is simply the chance to slow down—something many moms rarely get. Treat her to a quick skin retreat at VMV Skin-Specialist Boutiques and enjoy 15% off on products and services.
For a more memorable experience, consider doing something unique together, like a perfume-making session at The Scent Studio, where you can enjoy 30% off their workshop and 10% off home fragrances with a minimum single-receipt in-store spend of PHP650. It’s less about the activity and more about the time spent creating something together.
Upgrade her home For many moms, the things they use daily matter just as much as special-occasion gifts.
A small upgrade at home can make routines feel lighter and more enjoyable. Get her new kitchen essentials from Ninja Kitchen and take advantage of a 20% discount on select appliances, including their popular Dual Zone Airfryers. These items sound too practical, but it’s the kind of gift that becomes an essential part of her everyday.
Keep the classics Some gestures remain timeless for a reason. Flowers, for one, never go out of style.
Whether it’s a simple bouquet or something more elaborate, FlowerStore.ph offers 25% off plus free shipping on Mother’s Day when you use your Metrobank credit card and the app code MBANKMOM. Potico.ph also offers 30% off for any item on their online shop when you use the code MBANKPMOM. It’s an easy way to add a thoughtful touch to the day, especially when paired with a handwritten note.
Celebrate every kind of mom Motherhood looks different for everyone, and so does the way we celebrate it.
For new moms navigating a new routine, seasoned moms refreshing their newborn essentials, or any mom in need of a curated selection of parent-tested essentials, consider gifting items from Edamama, which offers 10% off in-store or PHP500 off online for first-time users (code: METROMAMA2026). It’s a small but helpful way to support this new chapter—practical, thoughtful, and grounded in what she actually needs.
Keep it simple, keep it meaningful At its core, Mother’s Day isn’t about doing more—it’s about being present. A thoughtful gift, a shared experience, or even just uninterrupted time together can mean more than any grand plan.
With a curated range of offers, Metrobank credit cardholders can focus less on the details and more on what truly matters: making Mom feel appreciated.
Museo del Galeón has formally opened in Manila, introducing a new cultural destination that honors a pivotal yet often underexplored chapter in Philippine heritage through an immersive museum experience centered on the country’s maritime history.
Located at the SM Mall of Asia Complex, the museum is housed in a four-level, dome-shaped structure spanning about 9,000 square meters. Positioned as a bold and visionary experiential museum, Museo del Galeón invites Filipinos to explore, rediscover, and deepen their understanding of a rich and complex seafaring identity shaped by maritime culture and expeditions—from the past, to the present, and into the future.
At the heart of the museum is the Galeón Espíritu Santo, a full-scale reconstruction of a 17th-century ship that once sailed between Manila and Acapulco. As the museum’s visual and experiential centerpiece, it gives visitors a direct and tangible way to encounter the scale, craftsmanship, and historical significance of the galleon era. Through its galleries, learning spaces, and interactive experiences, Museo del Galeón showcases the legacy of the Philippines’ seafaring ancestors and the role of Filipino shipbuilders, sailors, dockworkers, and traders in global exchange.
The museum highlights a significant chapter in Philippine maritime and cultural history that is often not fully explored in mainstream public education. From 1565 to 1815, the Manila galleons linked Asia and the Americas for more than two centuries, carrying goods such as silver, porcelain, and spices across the Pacific. During this period, Manila became a center of maritime trade and cultural exchange.
Through immersive exhibits and interpretive storytelling, the museum helps audiences understand that the galleon was more than a ship—it was a symbol of global connection, commerce, exploration, and cultural encounter. It also restores attention to the contributions of Filipino craftsmen and seafarers, many of whom built and crewed these ships using local knowledge, skills, and materials.
“Museo del Galeón shines a light on an important yet often overlooked chapter of Philippine heritage, using immersive storytelling to bring the country’s maritime history closer to the public,” said Executive Director Manuel L. Quezon III.
Beyond preserving history, Museo del Galeón is designed to make it more accessible, engaging, and relevant to today’s audiences. Through curriculum-supportive programs, guided tours, lectures, hands-on workshops, interactive exhibits, and educational materials for teachers, it offers meaningful opportunities for children, students, educators, and the general public to explore Philippine maritime history beyond the classroom.
The museum also contributes to Manila’s cultural and tourism landscape. As a major new heritage destination, it is expected to attract students, families, tourists, researchers, and heritage audiences, with projected attendance of around 300,000 visitors annually. Its presence can help support tourism growth, nearby businesses, cultural partnerships, and employment in both the museum and hospitality sectors.
Museo del Galeón is also intended to deepen public appreciation of the Philippines as a maritime nation. While ships, navigation, and maritime technology are central to the story, the museum goes beyond vessels to explore the people, cultures, goods, traditions, and exchanges that shaped the world of the galleons. In doing so, it presents not only the technical story of maritime travel, but also the social, cultural, and human narratives behind it.
“By connecting our maritime past with the challenges and opportunities of the present, Museo del Galeón helps open a deeper conversation about identity, heritage, and our responsibility to the future,” said Quezon.
The museum continues the vision of the late Senator Edgardo J. Angara, who envisioned a place where cultures and generations could meet in mutual respect and reflect on how the Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade shaped the shared world. At its heart, Museo del Galeón is a space for understanding how the Philippines once stood at the center of global exchange—and how that story continues to matter today.
Tickets may be purchased through www.museodelgaleon.org or through the museum’s official ticketing channels once bookings become available. Visitors are encouraged to check the museum’s official website and social media pages for updates on ticket availability, operating hours, admission rates, and special announcements.
About Museo del Galeón
Museo del Galeón is an experiential museum in Manila dedicated to exploring the Philippines’ seafaring identity through maritime culture and expeditions from past to future. Through immersive exhibits and public engagement, it aims to deepen understanding of Philippine maritime heritage, inspire young Filipinos, and promote stewardship of marine resources.
Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City have emerged as standout stars within Accor’s Asia portfolio, earning top honours at the prestigious Asia Leadership Conference 2026 an achievement that places the Philippines firmly on the region’s hospitality map.
Hosted at Novotel Manila Araneta City, the annual gathering brought together more than 300 General Managers and Accor’s global leadership for three days of forward-thinking dialogue and strategic
exchange. Framed by the theme “THRIVE,” the conference explored the future of hospitality through the lenses of performance, purpose, and people; setting the tone for a new era of growth across Asia’s dynamic travel landscape. This also marks the first time the Philippines has been selected as host venue, spotlighting the country’s world-renowned Filipino hospitality while shining a light on Araneta City as the “City of Firsts.”
Yet it was during the much-anticipated Asia Leadership Awards that Manila, specifically the Araneta City, truly took the spotlight.
This year Novotel Manila Araneta City was honoured with the Brand Excellence Award for Midscale & Economy, a distinction reserved for properties that exemplify consistency, strong market presence, with an elevated brand experience earned through an exceptional 91.54 brand audit score, the highest in the Asian region a clear affirmation of brand integrity, consistency, and guest promise delivered at scale.
Notably, this latest win builds on its strong track record, following its recognition at the Accor Awards in 2023. Its legacy of excellence extends even further. In 2023, Novotel Manila Araneta City secured its position as a regional culinary leader, having been hailed as the Best Food & Beverage (F&B) Performer at the Accor Asia Awards. The property also earned key nominations across five major categories, including Best Loyalty Performance and Hotel of the Year, a testament to its well-rounded strength across both guest experience and commercial performance.
In a further testament to the team’s culture and service ethos, both Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City were jointly recognized with the Work of Heart Award, a celebration of genuine hospitality, emotional connection, and the kind of intuitive service that defines
memorable stays. The hotels proudly took home the said award, with ibis Styles Manila Araneta City achieving an outstanding 9.8 and Novotel Manila Araneta City an even higher 9.9 in employee engagement survey results among the highest scores in the network. These results reflect a culture built on trust, ground-level engagement, and genuine care for Heartists, brought to life every day on the hotel floor.
Novotel Araneta City named finalist for Hotel of the Year 2025, a distinction that honors holistic performance from rigorous brand audits and operational excellence to exceptional employee engagement and guest loyalty. Further reinforcing their commitment to responsible growth, the property was also recognized as finalist for the Responsible Hospitality Award 2025, underscoring meaningful progress toward Green Key Certification and a deep-rooted dedication to reducing environmental impact while delivering memorable, eco-conscious guest experiences.
“These recognitions are a proud moment for our entire team,” said Maria Manlulu-Garcia, Cluster General Manager of Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City and Area General Manager, The Philippines Premium, Midscale, and Economy. “They reflect the passion, consistency, and genuine care our Heartists bring to every guest interaction. To be acknowledged on a regional stage among our peers across Asia reinforces our commitment to delivering both exceptional performance and meaningful guest experiences.”
Beyond the accolades, the conference itself offered a curated blend of high-level insights and collaborative exchange bringing together senior executives, industry experts, and strategic partners to unpack emerging travel trends, evolving guest expectations, and the growing importance of responsible hospitality. For the Heartists of Araneta Hotels Inc, representing Novotel and ibis Styles Manila Araneta City,
the wins signal more than operational success they mark a defining moment of recognition within one of the world’s most competitive hospitality regions. As Accor continues to sharpen its focus on innovation and guest-centricity, these Manila properties exemplify how heart, culture, and performance can come together to create something truly exceptional.
Texas Roadhouse Philippines, a concept of The Bistro Group, proudly marks its 10th anniversary this month, celebrating a decade of delivering legendary food and legendary service. This milestone year is made even more remarkable by a series of prestigious awards recently received from Texas Roadhouse USA, demonstrating the restaurant’s exceptional performance on the global stage.
Award-Winning Team
Last April 28, Texas Roadhouse Philippines received four prestigious awards in Nashville, Tennessee from its international principals. The awards were a momentous recognition for the brand’s decade-long commitment to growth, serving as an inspiration to push for greater heights.
Among the accolades, Texas Roadhouse Philippines was recognized with the International Milestone Award for achieving 25 Legendary Locations in the country, a testament to the brand’s sustained growth and strong connection with the local market. Alongside this, it also received the Global Ambassador Award highlighting its role in overall brand performance.
Further solidifying its leadership in the industry, the Philippine team earned the Legendary Achievement Award for posting an outstanding 38% growth in guest count (GC) in 2025. In addition, an impressive 22 out of 25 stores set all-time sales records and 45 record-breaking sales awards, a reflection of operational excellence and guest loyalty.
Behind these achievements are passionate leaders and dedicated teams. Some general managers were also recognized for their hard work, leadership and commitment to upholding the brand’s world-class standards.
First opened in Uptown Mall in 2016, Texas Roadhouse quickly became a favorite among local guests who delight in hand-cut steaks; award-winning, fall-off-the-bone ribs; made-from-scratch sides and the widely popular fresh-baked bread, among others.
Looking ahead, Texas Roadhouse is poised to raise the bar even higher, focusing on enhancing every aspect of the guests’ dining experience.
10 years in and the legendary steakhouse has no plans of stopping.
Follow @texasroadhouseph in Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok.
Violinist and music educator Kaya Mendoza, one of the many scholars of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP), found her fondness for melodies within the confines of the classroom. Over time, it developed into an intentional pursuit; one that gave her direction, duty, and profound purpose.
Finding the harmony between performing and teaching
As early as nine years old, Mendoza had already been playing the violin, thanks to a group class part of her curriculum at the Kolisko Waldorf School, headed by Ford Pundamiera.
While finishing her studies at Philippine High School for the Arts in Makiling, Laguna, under the mentorship of Sergio Esmilla and Gina Medina-Perez, Mendoza’s connection with music deepened, finding herself yearning for more. Later on, she pursued music education at the University of the Philippines Diliman (UPD) and profoundly examined her love for her craft. She is currently a student of Dino Decena.
“It’s just nice to connect with other people through music,” she said, recalling a performance in Kuala Lumpur along with the Orchestra of the Filipino Youth.
Through the years, Mendoza has performed with renowned orchestras, including the ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra in 2020 and the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra back in 2023. While actively performing in orchestras and freelance engagements, she began sharing her knowledge on music, navigating both spaces with equal passion and commitment.
When the COVID-19 pandemic halted live performances, Mendoza transitioned to virtual concerts and volunteered in online workshops, such as the CCP’s Hands-On Choral Workshop. She continued to facilitate workshops and classes in person even after the world slowly recovered. “I really wanted to teach. Na-inspire kasi ako sa sarili kong music education and sa mga teachers ko,” said Mendoza.
Performing and playing the violin perfectly filled Mendoza’s innate need to mentor students by sharing her personal experiences. “‘Pag nagpe-perform ka, may natututuhan ka na mapapasa mo sa students,” said Mendoza, who describes herself as a lifelong student of music.
Mendoza’s humble perspective on learning naturally extended into her advocacy. Realizing that exposing people to music warrants a deeper appreciation, she never shied away from addressing the inaccessibility of music education. “I want to provide music education for all, regardless of background or status,” Mendoza declared bravely.
A scholar’s responsibility to give back
This commitment to teaching and sharing knowledge forms a core part of her advocacy as a CCP scholar. Beyond honing her craft as a performer, she actively seeks to give back by creating accessible learning spaces, mentoring aspiring artists, and sharing the values and discipline she gained through her own training.
This same sense of purpose also shaped how she viewed her own journey within the program. “I was really surprised to be accepted because I thought that the CCP scholarship is only given to students who have attained high artistic achievements,” shared Mendoza, recalling the surreal moment of receiving the news in 2021.
For Mendoza, her role as a scholar is not only about artistic excellence, but also about nurturing the next generation and contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable arts community. As a scholar supported by a public institution, Mendoza has a strong sense of duty to hone her talent. She became increasingly aware of the role she played, not just as a student, but as someone held accountable by the community:
“There are now high expectations and standards to uphold, because my education is funded by the taxpayers’ money. I want to give back to all the people who have supported me in pursuing music by doing well,” said the young scholar.
Thankfully, Mendoza has a steady support system, which consistently inspires and encourages her to believe in her potential. “That’s what helps me push through and continue doing what I can,” she admitted, commending how her family, peers, and mentors help her through the technical and emotional demands of the music industry.
From production work to workshop facilitation, Mendoza has expanded her involvement beyond performance and teaching. These experiences have allowed her to explore other dimensions of music.
Reflecting on her journey as a CCP scholar who performs and teaches music, Mendoza emphasized the art of knowing when to pause: “If you want to pursue music, it’s important to take care of yourself. The love and dedication to music and practicing go hand-in-hand with resting.”
In the future, Mendoza wishes to continue integrating music across disciplines after her capstone project, Titik at Tinig: A Workshop on Teaching Literacy through Music at the UPD. She also shared her dream of collaborating and sharing the spotlight with brilliant artists while treading her path to become a licensed professional music educator.
CCP scholar Mendoza answers her calling onstage and beyond
As she looks ahead, Mendoza remains committed to both aspects of her identity: as a performer and as an educator. What once sparked in the classroom has blossomed into a meaningful purpose that goes beyond personal achievement.
In pursuing teaching and performing, Mendoza spotlights music as a communal relationship, wherein the artist and audience exchange ideas and feelings by simply basking in harmonies. “I just love both [playing the violin and teaching],” she explained with a chuckle, finding the mere thought of giving up core parts of her identity absurd.
In many ways, Mendoza’s name perfectly encapsulates her journey as an artist and educator. Kaya, which translates to “can” in English, serves as clear validation of her ability to connect and grow through music.
It is now a quiet testament to the endless possibilities she holds in her future, too.
Conrad Manila is delighted to present “Wonderland Reverie”, an indulgent and whimsical dessert buffet at Brasserie on 3, featuring seven curated stations inspired by the timeless Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll, reimagined through delectable sweets and savory bites. Running from April 25 to July 31, 2026, this weekend-only dining experience invites guests to journey through fantasy and flavor, crafted for both children and adults to enjoy.
“At Conrad Manila, we always strive to innovate and provide new experiences for our guests,” said Rupert Hallam, general manager of Conrad Manila. “Thoughtfully curated by our award-winning culinary team, we invite everyone to explore the imaginative installations and delight in expertly crafted flavors at the “Wonderland Reverie” in Brasserie on 3.”
Each station at Wonderland Reverie offers a distinct chapter of the experience, brought to life through decadent flavors and enchanting visuals. The dessert buffet is available every Saturday and Sunday from 3:00pm to 5:00pm for PHP 2,500 nett per person, promising an afternoon of indulgence and playful discovery.
Victorian Garden Party
The journey begins on a calm and elegant note at the Victorian Garden Party. Guests are treated to delicate creations such as lemon madeleines with a gentle citrus finish, smooth and delicately balanced vanilla mousse domes, and pocket watch cookies, a charming nod to the White Rabbit and his ever-present sense of time.
Mad Tea Party
At the Mad Tea Party, flavors take an unexpected turn. This station plays with contrast and creativity, featuring dulce pot de crème offering a smooth contrast of sweetness and depth, mango honey cake that seamlessly blends bright fruitiness with a soft, lingering richness in a way that feels delightfully unexpected yet thoughtfully composed, and pistachio sphere, a fitting emblem of the Mad Tea Party itself.
Down the Rabbit Hole
Adventurers can savor a surprising balance of flavors Down the Rabbit Hole. The spread includes miso caramel brownies, an out-of-ordinary mix of sweet and savory, rich and smoky maple bacon cupcakes. At the heart of it all stands a white rabbit-inspired chocolate confection, as guests descend together into Wonderland with every bite.
The Red Queen’s Court
Chocolate takes center stage at The Red Queen’s Court. Highlights include handcrafted pralines, a flowing chocolate fountain, and rose-inspired chocolate creations designed to delight both the palate and the senses. The crowning centerpiece is a striking chocolate creation of the Red Queen’s head.
Frabjous (Savory Interlude)
Before returning to sweeter notes, guests can pause at Frabjous, a savory and tea-inspired interlude with hot and cold selections. Offerings include warm and velvety smoked tomato cappuccino, golden and hearty Frabjous sausage roll, decadent Earl Grey tea cake, fresh and vibrant caterpillar garden roll, and delicate yet rich Red Queen salmon blinis, providing warmth, balance, and a gentle reset for the palate.
Pool of Tears
For those seeking lighter options, the Pool of Tears presents thoughtfully composed desserts such as sugar-free mango cheesecake and mixed berry chia pudding. At this chapter, guests can also try “Drink Me”flavored shooters and “Eat Me” chiffon cakes.
White Queen’s Coronation and The Escape
The experience concludes with The Escape, where warm and familiar flavors await. Guests can enjoy chocolate babka, cromboloni, and a striking doughnut wall, both visually impressive and deeply satisfying.Wonderland Reverie at Brasserie on 3 offers a harmonious blend of whimsy and indulgence, ideal for solo visits or shared moments with loved ones. For more information on Conrad Manila’s latest offerings, please contact (63 2) 8833 9999 or email MNLMB.FB@ConradHotels.com.
Following the announcement of Morissette as Middle Allie in its upcoming international premiere of The Notebook: The Musical, TGA now unveils two exciting additions to the cast: rising theatre and screen talents Benedix Ramos as Young Noah and Sheena Belarmino as Young Allie.
Joining a production that reimagines Nicholas Sparks’ beloved story across different stages of life, Ramos and Belarmino will bring to life the formative years of Noah and Allie, the chapter of first love marked by intensity, innocence, and defiance.
Ramos is an actor, singer-songwriter, and host whose growing body of work across television, film, and theatre has established him as one of the most promising young performers of his generation. He first gained national recognition through Pinoy Big Brother Kumunity Season 10: Celebrity Edition and has since built a diverse portfolio spanning screen and stage. His theatre credits include Tabing Ilog: The Musical, Next to Normal, and Bar Boys: The Musical, where his performance earned him a Gawad Buhay nomination for Best Male Lead in a Musical. He was also recognized with the Emerging Talent Award by the Manila Society of Theater Reviewers, further cementing his reputation as a dynamic and versatile performer. As Young Noah, Ramos brings both emotional depth and a contemporary sensibility to the role, shaping the character’s early journey with nuance and sincerity.
Meanwhile, Sheena Belarmino brings a compelling blend of vocal power and stage presence to the role of Young Allie. A singer, dancer, actress, and host, Belarmino began her career in major reality competitions before becoming a regular performer on ASAP. She has steadily built her theatre credentials with roles in One More Chance: The Musical, Tabing Ilog: The Musical, Next to Normal, and Bar Boys: The Musical, most recently taking on Wendla Bergmann in Spring Awakening. Her performance in One More Chance earned her a Gawad Buhay nomination for Outstanding Female Featured Performance in a Musical. With her strong emotional instincts and musicality, Belarmino is set to embody Young Allie’s spirited nature with authenticity and depth.
Together with Morissette Amon as Middle Allie, the casting reflects TGA’s commitment to assembling a multi-generational ensemble capable of capturing the sweeping emotional scope of The Notebook: The Musical. Featuring music and lyrics by Ingrid Michaelson and a Tony Award winning book by Bekah Brunstetter, the musical is celebrated for its intimate storytelling and its portrayal of love as it evolves through youth, adulthood, and old age.
As part of its annual Global Month of Good celebration, Starbucks Philippines is reinforcing its commitment to the communities it serves – while inviting more Filipinos to take part in their own way.
This year, Starbucks highlights a simple but powerful idea: anyone can be a Community Champion through small, everyday actions that create meaningful change for the environment, the community, and other people.
“Our local initiatives are grounded in the belief that meaningful change starts with strong community connections,” said Jamie Silva, senior manager for Marketing, Digital Customer Experience and Social Impact, Starbucks Philippines. “From education to disaster response initiatives and partner volunteerism, 2025 reflects how collective action can create lasting impact.”
In 2026, Starbucks Philippines is expanding its community impact initiatives through strengthened partnerships, improved access to essentials, and more opportunities for both partners (employees) and customers to take part in meaningful action.
Supporting Communities Where They Need the Most
Through its partnership with Planet Water Foundation and The Starbucks Foundation, Starbucks Philippines provides clean water access and hygiene education to an estimated 42,400 people in various regions around the country. This April, a ninth AquaTower will be installed in Camarines Sur, extending access to safe drinking to around 7,000 more individuals.
Starbucks Philippines also continues its longstanding partnership with HOPE to support education. Each year, Starbucks partners (employees) come together to help build safe and inspiring learning spaces for underserved communities. This year marks the completion of a sixth public school classroom in Sarangani in April, helping provide safe and conducive learning spaces for students in the community.
Alongside its community initiatives, Starbucks Philippines is also strengthening its sustainability efforts within its store operations. Starbucks Philippines has partnered with MPower to supply electricity to around 60 Metro Manila stores under the Retail Aggregation Program. This partnership is expected to result in improved operational efficiency while supporting long-term sustainability goals.
Continuing Efforts Powered by Volunteerism
Starbucks’ commitment to being a Community Champion is also reflected through volunteerism and everyday participation.
Starbucks Community Stores in Abad Santos, Tondo, and Maysilo Circle continue to support education programs in partnership with AHA! Learning Center, Young Focus Foundation, and Mano Amiga Philippines. To date, more than 1,500 learners have benefited from after-school sessions, literacy development activities, and leadership-building programs that help them gain confidence and stay engaged in school.
Addressing food insecurity remains a key focus. Through its FoodShare program, Starbucks has redirected nearly 3 million rescuable food items from close to 300 stores nationwide. In partnership with The Philippine Food Bank Foundation and Grab Philippines, surplus food is distributed to various communities.
Beyond these organized programs, Starbucks encourages customers to take part in simple, everyday actions throughout Global Month of Good. In their own small way, store visits can become part of the impact. Customers can use for-here ware or bring their own tumblers for their coffee orders and enjoy a PHP 10 discount.
Simple actions, when done together, can create a meaningful impact over time. This Global Month of Good, everyone is invited to be a Community Champion. To learn more about the Global Month of Good, visit starbucks.ph/social-impact.
