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Mega Sardines: 50 years of serving nutrient-rich meals, primed to go global

10:22 a.m. June 20, 2025
As it celebrates its 50th anniversary, Mega Prime Foods Inc. reflects on a remarkable journey—one that began with a simple mission to provide affordable, nutritious food to Filipino families.
What started as a humble fishing company has now become one of the most innovative and socially driven food manufacturers in Southeast Asia, producing over 3 million cans of sardines daily from its advanced facilities in Batangas and Zamboanga.
Sardines, long a staple in Filipino households, are among the most nutritionally dense foods in the world—rich in Omega-3 fatty acids for brain and heart health, vitamin B12 for metabolic support, and a host of other essential nutrients like calcium, iron, and selenium. Mega Sardines ensures these health benefits are preserved through its industry-leading “catch to can in 12 hours” process—setting it apart in freshness, quality, and care.
For Chairman and Founder William Tiu Lim, the journey has not been easy. From natural disasters like the devastating 1970s typhoon that destroyed much of their fishing fleet, to political and economic crises, Mega has endured and grown stronger. Through it all, Tiu Lim held fast to three core values: Quality, Innovation, and Malasakit—a uniquely Filipino term meaning selfless concern for others.
“We’ve always aimed for the best possible quality,” said Tiu Lim. “Our fish go from sea to can in just 12 hours, compared to the industry’s usual 1–3 days. That freshness is our edge.”
This commitment to innovation and excellence recently culminated in a global milestone: Mega Sardines was designated a “Superfood” by the Medical Wellness Association (MWA), becoming the first seafood product ever to receive the distinction. The recognition was awarded during Mega’s 50th anniversary celebration by MWA Board Member and faculty member James Michael Lafferty, underscoring the brand’s role in promoting global wellness.
“I was honored to announce Mega Sardines as the world’s first seafood Superfood,” said Lafferty. “It’s a testament to their quality, innovation, and mission to improve health outcomes.”
As the company transitions into its second generation of leadership under President and CEO Michelle Tiu Lim-Chan, the vision for global expansion is clear—but rooted in the same human values that built the brand.
“We are people-first,” said Lim-Chan. “We serve our customers, support our employees, and provide opportunities to improve lives. Growth is not just about geography—it’s about purpose.”
Mega Prime Foods is already expanding its product lines, offering not only sardines but also tuna, mackerel, fruit cocktails, coconut gel, Primo non-alcoholic sparkling juices, and the Jimm’s Coffee functional beverage line.
“Our proudest achievement is our ability to turn compassion into tangible, quality products,” Lim-Chan added. “We are not done yet. The next 50 years will be even more exciting.”

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Smart launches revamped Online Store, rolls out Postpaid Plan 799

9:43 p.m. July 7, 2025
Mobile services provider Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) is making it simpler and faster for more Filipinos to elevate their digital lifestyle with the launch of its revamped Smart Online Store (https://store.smart.com.ph/), a portal where new and existing customers can conveniently explore and securely avail of the latest prepaid and postpaid offers with just a few taps on their smartphone or computer.
As a special introductory offer, the revamped Smart Online Store is the launch platform for Smart Postpaid Plan 799, a SIM-Only Plan that comes with 15 GB open-access data for all sites and apps, 100 GB of 5G data for six months for use in Smart 5G-covered areas, Unlimited Calls and Texts with Landline Calls, and a complimentary Netflix Mobile subscription.
As an added perk for subscribers who will subscribe to the new Smart Postpaid Plan 799, applications made through the Smart Online Store will receive 50% more open access data (7.5 GB) for the first six months.
Easily sign up for a Smart Postpaid Plan 799
New and existing subscribers can conveniently sign up for Smart Postpaid Plan 799 by simply going to https://store.smart.com.ph/ (https://store.smart.com.ph/), selecting “SIM-Only Plans,” and then choosing “Plan 799.”
Customers must then fill out the required personal information to complete their online application.
Initially available only on the Smart Online Store, Smart Postpaid Plan 799 will also be offered to all Smart Stores nationwide soon.
Value-packed offers at your fingertips
Aside from enabling subscribers to avail of Smart Postpaid Plan 799 with just a few clicks, the Smart Online Store also allows customers to bundle a device with their SIM-Only Plan.
Moreover, Smart Online Store’s intuitively designed portal makes it so much easier for customers to discover other value-packed products and services that suit their lifestyle – from data, call, and text offers, SIMs and eSIMs, to the latest smartphones.
The portal also allows users to reload for credits, avail of limited promos, purchase phones bundled with Smart and TNT SIM cards, buy devices under Smart Bro 5G promos, and order Smart and TNT SIM packages.
Lastly, customers can enjoy a wide range of payment options with priority handling for select credit cards.
The revamped Smart Online Store is just one of the many ways that make Smart simply reliable for Filipino mobile users looking to level up their digital lifestyle and enjoy the many benefits of technology.
Visit the Smart Online Store and sign up for a Smart Postpaid Plan 799 now at https://store.smart.com.ph/.#
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Jollibee partners with Natalie Dau’s Project 1000, with run to culminate at brand’s milestone BGC store

5:45 p.m. April 29, 2025
Jollibee is a proud partner of ultramarathon runner and Guinness World Record holder Natalie Dau as she sets another record and travels 1000 km across the Philippines by foot, passing by iconic landmarks, interacting with communities, and doing charity activities along the way.
Project 1000 in the Philippines is Natalie’s second 1000 km ultramarathon, following her successful run throughout Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore last year. More than just an athletic feat, the project aims to raise awareness and support for various charities dedicated to empowering women and girls, making it not just a test of endurance, but also a run for a cause.
Everyone’s best friend Jollibee joined Natalie as she kicked off the run last April 21 in Santa Ana, Cagayan. Several branches across North Luzon have also served as quick stops for Natalie and her team, who all enjoyed their jolly favorites. On Day 5, the Project 1000 team had a heartwarming stop at Jollibee Narvacan in Ilocos Norte, as students from Ta-yac Elementary School experienced a special Jollibee Kids Party.
“I want you to experience a fun party that only Jollibee can offer. I hope you enjoy all the great food and have a fun day,” Natalie shared with the children during the celebration.
This special Jollibee Kids Party included fun games and a special performance from Jollibee and Hetty, which got Natalie and the kids very excited about. Loot bags and exciting prizes were also given away, bringing ultimate joy to students that participated.
“We’re delighted to partner with Natalie for Project 1000, as we have always sought to support initiatives that align with our values. This partnership allows us not only to continue bringing joy to underserved communities, but also celebrate resilience and determination, and the power of working together to create a positive impact in the community,” shared Dorothy Dee-Ching, VP-Marketing of Jollibee Philippines.
Over the next few days, Natalie will continue her journey through Zambales and Bulacan, with her final stop being Jollibee’s 1000th milestone store in Triangle Drive, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.
Just like Natalie, Jollibee is committed to spreading joy and inspiration to communities across the country. Through this meaningful partnership, every kilometer of Natalie’s run becomes a celebration of resilience, purpose, and joy.
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TCL celebrates 25 years of timeless greatness: Innovation and excellence in every Filipino home

6:47 p.m. April 12, 2025
For 25 years, TCL Electronics has been a part of our lives, bringing innovation into our homes. Now recognized as the new Triple Global Top 1 TV Brand in Mini-LED, Google TV, and Large-Size TVs (85 inches and above), according to OMDIA 2024, they celebrated this incredible journey with the 2025 TCL Grand Launch at Okada Manila’s Grand Ballroom. The theme, “Legendary Moment, Timeless Greatness,” wasn’t just words; it was a feeling of looking back at shared milestones and forward to a future where technology continues to enhance our everyday experiences.
TCL has been a key player in bringing technological progress to Filipino homes, consistently delivering innovations that transform everyday living. From how families enjoy their favorite teleseryes with immersive visuals and crystal-clear sound, to simplifying laundry days with energy-efficient washing machines, and cooling homes amidst the tropical heat with smart air-conditioning systems, TCL’s solutions are designed with real Filipino needs in mind. This legacy of pushing boundaries and redefining home experiences has made more intuitive, efficient, and powerful technologies accessible to a wider range of Filipino families.
Griffith Zhang, General Manager of Asia Pacific Business Group, TCL Industries, opens the program with a compelling speech: “In the past, TCL has achieved remarkable results in the Philippine market. Our TV and AC sales both hold the number 1 market share in sales volume and have become trusted brands among consumers. The Ref & WM category has also maintained a rapid growth trend, with a constantly expanding market share. These achievements are inseparable from the efforts and support of every partner. Looking ahead, TCL will continue to uphold the principle of ‘Technology Creates A Better Life’, constantly innovate and improve product quality and service levels. We hope to work collectively with all the partners to explore the Philippine market and achieve mutual benefit and win-win results.
Under the visionary leadership of TCL Philippines CEO Peter Chen, the brand is poised to reach new heights as he declared, “Being innovative has always been in TCL’s DNA. For us, innovation is to go beyond our limits and develop cutting-edge, sustainable technologies. For us, being fashionable is to create a diverse sensory experience through the combination of technology and art. Lastly, premium refers to our ongoing exploration of aesthetic philosophy. We believe there’s a power that keeps us going on the path to upgrading TCL’s brand value. Let’s work together, progress together, and prosper together.”
The evening’s centerpiece was a captivating presentation of TCL’s 2025 lineup, unveiling four game-changing innovations poised to revolutionize modern living. These innovations, centered on cooler, cleaner, smarter, and sharper technologies, promise to redefine the consumer experience.
TCL Philippines took the stage to reveal its latest technological breakthroughs. Charlie Huang, Deputy Product Director of Brownline, TCL Philippines, unveiled the brand’s most advanced C682 TV set to be launched soon. Bert Cheung, Deputy Product Director of Air Conditioner, TCL Philippines, introduced groundbreaking climate control solutions through the innovative and award-winning TCL FreshIn 3.0 Air Conditioners.
While Eric Li, Senior Product Manager of Washing Machine and Refrigerator, TCL Philippines, explored the next generation of washing machines through the TCL C20 Front Load Washer and Dryer, emphasizing efficiency and smart technology, followed by a look at TCL’s game-changing newly-introduced Bottom Mounted refrigerator In refrigerators designed to engineered to elevate convenience and efficiency in everyday living.
The Pinnacle of Inspired Greatness
A significant moment of the evening highlighted TCL’s global partnership with the International Olympic Committee. This collaboration, extending through 2032, underscores TCL’s dedication to innovation and excellence. Built on shared values of performance, passion, and a vision for greatness, this partnership will elevate the Olympic and Paralympic Games to new heights. TCL enhances the Olympic Games by delivering cutting-edge technology to the Olympic Village and improving the global fan experience.
TCL Philippines Deputy Marketing Director of Marketing Shae Yu shared more about this extraordinary journey, “Being a global technology leader, TCL believes in the power to ‘Inspire Greatness,’ a sentiment echoed by the Olympic spirit. Through this partnership, TCL’s innovations will ignite inspiration in billions, delivering exceptional experiences and contributing to a sustainable future. TCL is committed to fulfilling its corporate social responsibility and fostering a better world.”
She continues, “Being a worldwide Olympic partner is more than just a badge of honor—it’s a declaration. This partnership allows us to bring the spirit of the Games directly into people’s lives. It’s not just about gadgets—it’s about experiences. And of course, we’re doing all this while keeping things sleek, smart, and sustainable. So, whether you’re an athlete chasing gold or just chasing your toddler around the house—we’ve got your back.”
With this, Yu welcomed onstage a special guest of honor, none other than Filipino pole vaulter EJ Obiena. He is ranked as world No. 4 in men’s pole vault by the World Athletics Rankings. He currently holds the Asian record with his clearance of 6.00 meters at the 2023 World Athletics Championships, where he won the silver medal. EJ excitedly shared his appreciation for being part of the momentous occasion and his excitement for the partnership.
“I think the partnership is great – it’s about chasing greatness, constant improvement, and perfection. Just as TCL constantly innovates to enhance our lives through their products, we athletes approach training with the same mindset: What can I do today that will lead to better performance?” EJ shared.
intuitive for everyday life.”
Moving Forward to More Greater Years
TCL’s 25-year success story is a testament to its strong leadership, which has driven growth and built key partnerships. To commemorate this milestone, Cyd Montebon, Deputy Director of Sales, and Wesley Yang, Deputy Director of Retail, led the team in a celebratory toast.
Montebon, brimming with excitement, exclaimed: To our cherished partners, our forward-thinking visionaries, and to all who have walked this incredible path with us—thank you. Thank you for your faith and support and for being part of this historic occasion.”
“TCL is a promise to innovate, connect, and redefine. And after tonight, it’s evident that the best is yet to come,” Yang stated as he raised his champagne glass.
As TCL commemorates its 25th anniversary, the brand embarks on a new journey, transforming Filipino homes with its signature blend of innovation and excellence. Rooted in a legacy of cutting-edge technology, TCL continues to enhance everyday living, empowering Filipino consumers with stylish, functional, and smart products. This milestone is a moment to celebrate the past and embrace a future where TCL remains dedicated to envisioning and shaping the homes of tomorrow for all Filipinos.