Improving the food industry in PH

The unequal supply and distribution of food around the globe are causing people to experience hunger.

In a recent survey, in the Philippines, one out of ten households does not have a secure supply of food. 

"Ultimately, it is our mission to help bring us closer to a food-secure and healthier Philippines by upholding the food industry to the highest standards. We commit to work with members of our organization, our partners across the region, food and health experts, and government leaders, to take bold and urgent action to make that happen," shares Rita Imelda Palabyab, re-elected President of the Philippine Chamber of Food Manufacturers Inc (PCFMI).

The game changers

The Philippine Chamber of Food Manufacturers Inc (PCFMI) is the principal organization of the manufacturers and distributors of food products in the Philippines. It is the organization's mission to help provide consumers with safe, nutritious, and affordable food products that are compliant with local and international standards and regulations.

To help ensure wide representation across the food industry and to further strengthen the organization, and find new and creative ways to cater to the public, the organization has elected its new set of board of directors and officers for 2023.
 
Rita Imelda Palabyab of San Miguel Foods, Inc. has been re-elected to serve as the organization's Chairman and President. PCFMI's newly elected officers include Ernesto Carlos of Ajinomoto Philippines as First VP Internal, Atty. Angela Esquivel of Alaska Milk Corporation as Second VP External, Jose Uy III of Nestle Philippines as Corporate Secretary, and Marites Directo of Universal Robina Corporation as Treasurer. 

Palabyab has appointed Ma. Cecilia Dela Paz of Promesso as Auditor and Angelina Miles of Coca-Cola Far East as Public Relations Officer. 

Alvin Marcelo of Golden Arches Development Corporation, Frances Congreso of Fonterra Brands, Elvira Mensalvas of Monde Nissin, and Ed Sunico of Unilever remain as members of the PCFMI Board. 

Atty. Angela Esquivel will also sit as the Chairperson of the PCFMI Legislative Committee, while the other Committee Chairpersons are Frances Congreso as Chairperson for Plans and Programs, together with Alvin Marcelo as Vice-Chair. Joey Uy is the Chairman of the Regulatory and Scientific Affairs Committee co-led by Vice-Chair Angelina Miles. Elvie Mensalvas will chair the Advocacy Committee together with Vice Chairs Cez Dela Paz and Marites Directo. 

"The new leaders of the Food Chamber are committed to advocating for the needs and interests of the food industry and its value chain. We will continue to promote sustainable and responsible food production, food safety, as well as the role that food plays in the Filipinos health and well-being", shares Palabyab. 

Sustaining Filipinos throughout generations

Proper consumer education on nutrition labeling, food storage, and handling, wellness, and community-based activities, such as diet and physical activity programs are some of the ways that the organization is stepping up to help Filipinos know more about food.

Aside from this, it is also pushing for a safe and sustainable food supply by taking food waste management seriously. Moreover, not only are adults learning, but the organization is also pledging responsible marketing to children. 

The organization is also sharing science-based best practices in the food industry so that manufacturers can have a standard in production and supply.

However, it does not stop there, for PCFMI it is always about innovation and review of regulations, safety, and supplies in order to help provide the ideal food circumstances for Filipinos.

It is their mission, along with their members who are food product manufacturers, to always be compliant with regulations, provide a safe, nutritious, and sustainable supply of food.

Geared up to provide quality food to Filipinos

PCFMI also collaborates with Philippine government agencies, as well as international industry organizations like the ASEAN Food and Beverage Alliance and Food Industry Asia, on upcoming and existing regulations and other important agenda such as marketing and advertising, food production and processing, and labelling. 

In 2022, PCFMI organized the World Food Safety commemoration featuring experts who shared insights on food safety risks and trends, risk communication strategies, and the value of Halal Certification which its members and stakeholders found to be meaningful learning for them.

Experts across Southeast Asia also shared their insights and perceptions on plastic waste. Waste industry representatives on plastic legislation also discussed the status quo, moreover, the recently passed Extended Producer Responsibility law was also tackled in a forum about sustainability.

Building up a food-secure and healthy Philippines

To help secure the food supply in the country, the PCFMI discussed public concerning issues such as the issue of sugar supply and opportunities for contribution to the country's nutrition agenda with the National Nutrition Council and the Department of Science and Technology - Food and Nutrition Research Institute, with its members.

Through position papers and participation in public consultations, the PCFMI also ensures that the industry is represented in key issues on plastic, pricing of basic necessities and prime commodities, and nutritional health policies. 

Ultimately, the organization along with its new and former members will continue to secure the food supply in the country and work towards a healthier Philippines. 

To know more PCFMI and its role in changing the food supply in the country, visit their website.

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