Enchanted Kingdom wraps 2024 with recognitions from DOT and DepEd

“Through this very relevant program, we have been able to provide even more world-class, enchanting, educational and entertainment experiences to our guests of all ages - embodying the unique brand of Filipino service excellence. As we at Enchanted Kingdom prepare to celebrate our 30th anniversary, we shall endeavor to continue our mutual support, partnership and collaboration with DOT especially in CALABARZON to uplift Philippine tourism service standards locally and globally in the years to come.” ~Mario O. Mamon, EK President and CEO 

The Department of Tourism (DOT)-CALABARZON presented Enchanted Kingdom, the first and only world-class theme park in the Philippines, with the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) Champion Award for Tourism Enterprises as it prepares to celebrate 30 years of creating and offering unforgettable magical experiences and memories.

Mario O. Mamon, President and CEO of EK, and Ms. Pauline Barreiro, Head of Learning and Development, accepted the award at the Philippine Tourism Awards Regional Recognition and Tourism Excellence Awards 2024, which were held on December 3 at the Twin Lakes Hotel in Tagaytay City.

99% of EK's more than 800 Cast Members (employees) have finished the FBSE program by 2024. The renowned theme park also intends to offer the aforementioned training to its tenants and partner agencies in 2025.

Partner in Education

At the Pasasalamat at Pagpupugay (Partners Appreciation and Recognition Event) on December 16, EK was acknowledged as one of the longstanding education partners who have consistently supported the Department of Education (DepEd). 

The aforementioned event honors and recognizes partners' cooperation and support of the various DepEd priority education programs. For the past ten years, EK has been assisting Brigada Eskwela in improving eleven classrooms across several Santa Rosa City, Laguna, elementary schools. 

Magical Year of Tourism Excellence

Beyond providing visitors of all ages with magical experiences, Enchanted Kingdom has a higher mission: to support the expansion of the travel industry and the local community.

During the 2nd Laguna Stakeholders Business Forum in August, the Provincial Government of Laguna (PGL) honored EK for its exceptional accomplishment and superiority in business operations and management. EK's noteworthy contribution to the province's economic growth and competitiveness was praised by the local government. 

Additionally, at the Laguna Business Summit in March, the PGL named EK an Esteemed Industry Partner for its significant contribution to the province's tourism and industry development. The aforementioned acknowledgment emphasized EK's commitment to quality, which has been demonstrated by the esteemed international honors it has earned, including the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Brass Rings Award for Best Retail Merchandise Display.

Good Corporate Citizenship and Fostering Inclusivity

EK was named a Top 3 Taxpayer by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Biñan-West Laguna District in March. This recognition was given in recognition of EK's timely and effective payment of accurate taxes, which significantly aided in meeting the district's 2023 collection target. In September, the City of Santa Rosa's local government unit (LGU) presented EK with the prestigious Lion Awards for Business, which included the Top Taxpayer Amusement Park Category.

Finally, as a Mother and Baby Friendly Establishment approved by the LGU Santa Rosa, EK reaffirmed its dedication to inclusivity. As part of LGU Santa Rosa's commemoration of National Autism Consciousness Week 2024 in January, EK was also acknowledged as an Autism Friendly Workplace for people with autism spectrum disorder.

“As we gear towards our 30th Anniversary of creating magical experiences and memories that last a lifetime, all the more that we commit to embracing Diversity, Exclusivity and Inclusivity. Ultimately, we want every guest regardless of gender, religion, culture, disability, and race to enjoy the park and accommodate their special needs in ways we can.” ~Dr. Cynthia R. Mamon, EK’s Chief Operating Officer

For more information about these awards and upcoming events and offerings, visit our Press Room at https://www.enchantedkingdom.ph/ek-press-room and EK’s official social media accounts for Facebook and Tiktok, and for Twitter and Instagram.

DOE recognizes SM Prime for its efforts in renewable energy and resource conservation

“These awards affirm SM Prime’s commitment to sustainable operations that benefit both the environment and our communities. We are proud to contribute to a greener future through our active energy conservation.” ~Engr. Hans Sy, Jr., SM Engineering and Design Development President

SM Center Pulilan receives award in the Large Building Category at the recently held Energy Efficiency Excellence Awards.

One of the biggest integrated real estate developers in Southeast Asia, SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), won major honors at the Department of Energy's (DOE) Sustainable Energy Awards and Energy Efficiency Excellence Awards.

SM Prime won awards at the Energy Efficiency Excellence Awards for SM Center Pulilan's Large Building Category and SM City Tanza and SM City Tuguegarao's New and Existing Building Category. Following the submission of the nominees' Annual Energy Utilization and Annual Energy Efficiency and Conservation Reports, the three malls were awarded under the Energy Management in Industries and Buildings division.

The DOE evaluates the businesses' energy savings and application of the Policy on Energy Management Systems in what are known as the EEE Awards. Through the extensive use of energy-efficient fixtures and equipment, such as Light-Emitting Diode (LED) lighting, building management systems, and building insulation to reduce electricity consumption, the awards showed SM Prime's dedication to appropriate energy management.

Since the Sustainable Energy Awards took place at the same time as the department's Renewable Energy Market (REM) full commercial operations were ceremoniously launched, DOE Undersecretary Sharon Garin oversaw the awarding for both events.

Department of Energy (DOE) – Energy Utilization Management Board Director Patrick Aquino (seventh from left) with SM Engineering Design & Development (EDD) Vice President for Operations Engr. Teodoro Bautista, SM Supermalls Vice President for Corporate Compliance Engr. Liza Silerio, SM Prime Holdings Vice President for Internal Audit Marvin Perrin Pe, along with representatives from SM Center Pulilan, SM City Tanza, and SM City Tuguegarao.

Department of Energy (DOE) Undersecretary Sharon Garin congratulates SM Engineering Design & Development (EDD) Vice President for Operations Engr. Teodoro Bautista for SM Mall of Asia (MOA)’s win of the first DOE Sustainable Energy Award for private institutions.

In the Philippines, SM Mall of Asia (MOA), the flagship mall of SM Prime, defeated other establishments to win DOE's inaugural Sustainable Energy Award for a Private Institution. Installed on top of the complex's parking structures, SM MOA's solar photovoltaic system—which consists of 40 inverters and 10,426 solar panels—is its most notable renewable energy feature. 

With a peak energy output of 2.7 megawatts (MW), the system can supply 1,790 households with electricity for a full year. As of right now, 35 SM Supermalls have solar panels installed on their roof decks, with a peak energy output of 44 MW. 

Most SM Supermalls take part in DOE's Interruptible Load Program (ILP), contributing 110MW of electricity to each ILP activity. With SM MOA offering the highest committed capacity at 15.92 MW, SM Prime makes the biggest contribution from the private sector.

Renewable energy and appropriate waste management are key components of SM Prime's objective to reach Net Zero by 2040. Together, they support national goals that will help the Philippines move toward a better and more promising future.  

The iPhone 16 Pro Max is available for an alluring device cash-out of PHP 1,863 per month for 24 months with Globe's All-new Platinum GPlan 3799 for those looking for a premium experience. For some customers renewing their plans, the device will be charged to their bills, and for some credit cards, there will be a 0% installment option. Customers also benefit from priority delivery and stock as part of your Platinum advantage.

True unlimited data, unlimited all-net text and calls, including to landlines, access to local airport lounges (through PAGSS and Plaza Premium), Platinum-only benefits and privileges, and 24/7 Facebook Messenger access to Thea of Globe Platinum to help with any Globe or lifestyle needs are all included in this premium package.

With the promo code GLOBE10, Globe is offering a 10% discount on iPhone cases bought online through their partnership with Casetify. The offer is valid until December 31, 2024, and there is no minimum purchase amount needed.

Consumers can pick up their iPhone 16 from any Globe Store in the country, where a committed staff is available to guarantee a satisfying and easy shopping experience.

Here are five suggestions for reaching your fitness goals with Century Tuna in 2025: New Year, New Bod

Set realistic workout plans using a journal or a fitness app. Photo by Freepik

Resetting, refocusing, and rejuvenating your health goals is ideal during the New Year. With straightforward yet powerful advice that you can apply to your everyday routine, Century Tuna, the ideal companion for a healthy lifestyle, is here to help you get started on your 2025 fitness journey. Century Tuna is there to support you at every stage, whether you're just getting started or want to advance your career.

To help you become the best version of yourself, Century Tuna Superbod 2014 champion Mauro Lumba, who also serves as personal fitness coach to Aga Muhlach and Richard Gomez, brand ambassadors for Century Tuna, has provided the following five useful fitness tips:

Start Small, Stay Consistent

Start your fitness journey with small, consistent steps. Photo by Freepik

It takes small, steady steps to accomplish big goals. Start with small adjustments, such as replacing unhealthy snacks with healthier ones, such as Century Tuna Flakes in Oil, or incorporating a 15-minute walk into your daily routine. Over time, these modest efforts add up to big outcomes.

Plan Balanced, Nutritious Meals

Fuel your fitness journey with Century Tuna and Grilled Sweet Potato

What you eat drives your fitness objectives. Include foods high in protein, such as Century Tuna, in your meals to aid in muscle repair and increase vitality. Century Tuna offers a range of flavors, such as Paella and Herbs, that make eating healthily tasty and simple.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Make sure to be hydrated during your workout. Photo by Freepik

Maintaining proper hydration is essential for general health and fitness. Keep hydrated and bring a water bottle with you wherever you go to sustain your energy levels, facilitate digestion, and enhance your performance during exercise.

Move More, Every Day

Just like Century Tuna brand ambassadors Richard Gomez and Aga Muhlach, you can be consistent in your fitness journey

Staying active doesn't require a gym membership. Choose a hobby you enjoy, such as yoga, dancing, or bicycling, and incorporate it into your daily schedule. Follow in the footsteps of Century Tuna ambassadors Richard Gomez and Aga Muhlach, who started their fitness journeys ten months ago and have been assiduously integrating exercise.

Keep Your Goals Realistic and Track Progress

Establish attainable objectives and acknowledge your progress at each stage. No matter how tiny, progress is still progress. To stay motivated and track your accomplishments, use a fitness app or keep a journal.

The New Year is the ideal time to embark on your #JourneytoSuperbod because #TheBestYouStartsNow. Being the best version of yourself has never been easier when Century Tuna is on your side.

Please visit https://centurytuna.ph/ for additional information, or follow Century Tuna on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/centurytuna or at Instagram for more updates.

New Intel Core Ultra Processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series Laptop GPUs are featured in Acer's Predator Helios AI laptops

“Acer continues to push the boundaries of gaming in our latest Predator devices. Our commitment to innovating in the gaming sphere is evident in the integration of the latest silicon, the world’s thinnest laptop cooling fan blades, and the slimmest design of our powerful Helios Neo laptops, advancements that help deliver the performance and immersive experiences gamers desire.” ~James Lin, General Manager, Notebooks at Acer Inc.

Important performance and feature upgrades to Acer's powerful Predator gaming laptops, including the flagship Predator Helios 16 AI and Predator Helios 18 AI, were announced today. The new Predator Helios Neo 16S AI, which features a slimmer chassis without compromising performance, is another addition to Acer's Helios Neo lineup of midrange gaming laptops. 

All of the devices are equipped with next-generation NVIDIA GeForce RTXTM 50 Series laptop GPUs and an Intel® CoreTM Ultra 9 processor 275HX, which are designed to provide cutting-edge AI and gaming performance. GeForce RTXTM 50 Series laptop GPUs, powered by NVIDIA Blackwell, give creators and gamers revolutionary capabilities. New experiences and next-level graphics fidelity are made possible by the RTX 50 Series' enormous amount of AI power. With NVIDIA DLSS 4, you can perform multiple tasks, create images at a speed never seen before, and use NVIDIA Studio to unleash your creativity. Additionally, NVIDIA NIM Microservices are cutting-edge AI models that enable developers and enthusiasts to create AI agents, assistants, and workflows with optimal performance on NIM-ready systems. 

The incredibly thin 6th Gen AeroBladeTM 3D fans and MagKey 4.0 mechanical switches also support the Helios devices. Additionally, both lines added OLED and Mini LED displays to their models and underwent design updates. Three months of PC Game Pass are included with the Windows 11 Predator gaming laptops. For PC gamers, PC Game Pass offers games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Ara: History Untold, and EA Play titles. 

“The new Intel Core Ultra 200HX-series processors are purpose-built for the max performance and IO that enthusiast gamers demand, while delivering that experience at significantly lower power. Intel Core Ultra combined with Acer’s innovative system engineering results in amazing new Predator devices that raise the bar for gaming laptops.” ~David Feng, Vice President and General Manager, Client Segments, Client Computing Group at Intel.

The new Predator XB323QX gaming monitor was also revealed. It features a 31.5-inch 5K display and integrated NVIDIA G-SYNC® Pulsar technology, which provides exceptional visual fidelity and clarity.

Predator Helios 16 AI and Predator Helios 18 AI Gaming Laptops

The Helios 16 AI and Helios 18 AI, Predator's newest and most potent gaming laptops, are popular with gamers, early adopters, and tech enthusiasts looking for the newest CPUs and GPUs, cooling systems, and eye-catching screens. The Predator Helios 16 AI (PH16-73) offers a remarkable blend of portability and performance. It is incredibly capable and portable, making it simple for professionals or gamers on the go who need a powerful, mid-sized laptop for work and play to bring to LAN sessions, tournaments, and work. Hardcore gamers and tech-savvy customers seeking cutting-edge technology for uses other than gaming can now enjoy desktop-level performance, a larger screen, and excellent immersive gaming experiences with the Predator Helios 16 AI (PH18-73). 

Both laptops offer up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 275HX with NPU for AI-accelerated performance, up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop GPU and the latest NVIDIA DLSS technologies to deliver accelerated performance for premium graphical gaming and AI experiences. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop GPU also enhances the laptops with 150+ optimized AI apps on PC that use NVIDIA GPUs and RTX Tensor Cores to accelerate AI, including the top generative AI apps for LLMs, visual asset generation, and more. 

Both systems offer enormous amounts of space for libraries of games, pictures, and movies. The Helios 18 AI supports up to a whopping 192 GB of memory and up to 6 TB of PCIe Gen 5 storage, while the Helios 16 AI can be configured with up to 64 GB of memory and up to 4 TB of PCIe Gen 5 storage. With its most recent developments in thermal technology, the Predator Helios devices go above and beyond. The exclusive 6th Gen AeroBlade 3D metal fans, which have the thinnest cooling fan blades in the world at just 0.05 mm, increase airflow by 20%[] when compared to plastic fans. Liquid metal thermal grease and vector heat pipes also aid in lowering temperatures.

The Helios devices also come with cutting-edge displays, providing stunning, bright and crystal-clear canvases for games and movies. The Helios 16 AI features an OLED WQXGA (2560x1600) display with a fast 240 Hz refresh rate. Meanwhile, the Helios 18 AI sports a 4K Mini LED WQXGA display, with a 120 Hz refresh rate, up to 1000 nits brightness, and a new dual-mode display feature that allows users to seamlessly switch to FHD resolution at 240 Hz via the PredatorSense application[ ]. They also support NVIDIA G-SYNC technology, NVIDIA Advanced Optimus and MUX Switch. 

With Acer's MagKey 4.0 swappable mechanical switches for the WASD and arrow keys, the devices' per-key RGB keyboards improve typing experience and increase trigger signal accuracy. Faster response times for that crucial edge are achieved by the switches' faster actuation and more accurate trigger signals, which require only 0.3 mm of key travel to register a press. These devices add a powerful presence to any gaming scene with their new design, which includes dynamic RGB lighting on the top lid, along the rear frame, the left edges, and the right-side palm rest. 

With the help of the most recent PredatorSense utility app, users can fully control the lighting, fans, and system performance on both laptops. Furthermore, AI-powered features like Acer PurifiedViewTM 2.0, Acer PurifiedVoiceTM 2.0, and the new Acer ProCamTM, which automatically detects and captures gameplay highlights, are simple to explore in the Experience Zone. For clear, high-quality audio, both laptops come with DTS:X Ultra; the Helios 16 AI has four speakers, while the Helios 18 AI has six. The newest Ethernet E5000B, Intel Killer Wi-Fi 7, and two Thunderbolt 5 ports provide lightning-fast connections.

Predator Helios Neo 16S AI Laptop

Performance, accuracy, and style are all balanced in the new Predator Helios Neo 16S AI laptop, which offers enormous performance in a smaller form factor. It is specifically made to be versatile in supporting demanding gaming and creative applications at a more affordable price point, measuring just less than 19.9 mm. 

With support for up to the Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 275HX with an integrated NPU for AI and gaming and the new NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti Laptop GPU, the Helios Neo 16S AI (PHN16S-71) prioritizes performance just like the newly released Helios laptops. It also has the newest NVIDIA DLSS technologies for improved performance, image quality, and responsiveness, as well as up to 32 GB of memory and 2 TB of storage. 

Its gorgeous OLED WQXGA display supports NVIDIA G-SYNC technology, NVIDIA Advanced Optimus, and a MUX Switch. It has a fast refresh rate of 240 Hz and a wide color gamut that supports 100% DCI-P3 for best-in-class visuals. Acer's 5th Gen AeroBlade technology and liquid metal thermal grease for the CPU are examples of advanced thermals. Players can access the Experience Zone's array of AI-powered features, and the PredatorSense app gives them real-time control over system modifications. 

Predator XB323QX – 5K Powerhouse Monitor

The Predator XB323QX gaming monitor will captivate gamers who are looking for immersive gameplay. With a large 31.5-inch 5K IPS screen, a refresh rate of 144 Hz, a response time of 0.5 ms (GTG), and the ability to switch to WQHD (2560x1440) resolution at 288 Hz using Dynamic Frequency and Resolution (DFR) technology and NVIDIA G-SYNC Pulsar, it features buttery smooth action and incredibly clear images with 4x more effective motion clarity. With 95% DCI-P3 or 99% sRGB color gamut support, the monitor's vibrant colors and cinematic visuals are further enhanced by its true 10-bit color depth. It provides great connectivity with two HDMI 2.1 ports and DisplayPort 1.4.

Gamers can find the ideal viewing angle for any setting thanks to the monitor's tilt, swivel, and height adjustments for optimal comfort. In order to conserve desk space, it can also be wall-mounted. High-quality audio is amplified by the built-in 2-watt speakers, and control and calibration are made simple by the Acer display widget. 

Price and Availability

Exact specifications, prices, and availability will vary by region. To learn more about availability, product specifications and prices in specific markets, please contact your nearest Acer office via www.acer.com.

Visit Acer’s Media Center for product images and specifications, or visit the Acer Press Room to see all announcements.

About Acer

Founded in 1976, Acer is one of the world’s top technology companies with a presence in more than 160 countries. The company continues to evolve by embracing innovation across its offerings which include computers and displays, while branching out to new businesses. Acer is also committed to sustainable growth, exploring new opportunities that align with its environmental and social responsibilities. The Acer Group employs over 7,800 employees that contribute to the research, design, marketing, sales and support of products, solutions, and services that break barriers between people and technology. Visit www.acer.com for more information.

Asia’s grandest dog show set to take place at Smart Araneta Coliseum

The Philippine Circuit 2025, Asia's largest dog show, will take place at the Smart Araneta Coliseum from January 9–13. 

The inaugural National Grooming Team Competition is a ground-breaking addition to this year's event that will raise the Philippines' profile in the international grooming world. In addition to this competition, the All-Breed Championship Dog Shows, which will include 96 breeds and 7,560 entries in 12 shows, will be judged by 17 elite judges.

The event boasts impressive numbers, with daily entries reaching 1,890 and top breeds like the French Bulldog, Golden Retriever, and Pomeranian among the highlights. 

Get your tickets for as low as P100. To get your tickets please visit this link, https://www.ticketnet.com.ph/event-detail/PHILIPPINE-CIRCUIT-2025.

Acer Expands Its Essential Gaming Portfolio with the Release of New Nitro V Series Laptops

Acer today unveiled its new Nitro V series in various screen sizes, showcasing a powerful lineup of entry-level gaming laptops designed to make AI-powered gaming more accessible. The Nitro V laptops combine outstanding responsiveness, stutter-free graphics, and plenty of storage to meet the demands of developing AI features and applications, making them perfect for students, creators, and serious gamers looking for all-around performance. 

The new Nitro devices accommodate a wide range of user preferences and styles by coming in different configurations and screen sizes. They also include three months of PC Game Pass. With games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Ara: History Untold, and titles from EA Play, PC Game Pass is made specifically for PC gamers. 

Nitro V AI Gaming Laptops

The new Nitro V AI laptop lineup debuts with a range of models to choose from: the Nitro V 17 AI, Nitro V 16 AI, and Nitro V 14 AI. These gaming laptops are powered by up to the new AMD Ryzen™ AI 7 350 processor, based on the new “Zen 5” architecture. They enable smooth local AI capabilities, and are optimized for low power consumption, offering excellent battery life and accelerated responsiveness when gaming or creating. These Copilot+ PCs are powered by an NPU performing up to 50 AI TOPS of processing power and enable generative AI experiences, like Cocreator in Paint. They also come with AI-powered graphics, featuring up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPUs[[i]] with the latest NVIDIA DLSS 3.5 technologies for lifelike virtual scenes with ray tracing and up to 32 GB of memory and 2 TB of storage.

The Nitro V 17 AI (ANV17-61) gaming laptop features up to a 17.3-inch,16:9 QHD (2560 x 1440) display with up to a 165 Hz refresh rate and DCI-P3 100% color gamut range. The Nitro V 16 AI (ANV16-61) offers a WQXGA (2560 x 1600) resolution, up to 180 Hz and sRGB 100% support. The Nitro V14 AI (ANV14-62) provides up to a WQXGA resolution and 165 Hz refresh rate, and its white, pearl-like finish goes beyond traditional designs, making this laptop stand out in a market typically dominated by darker colors.

Acer Nitro V 15 Gaming Laptops

The new Nitro V 15 AI (ANV15-42) features up to an AMD™ Ryzen 7 8845HS processor, while the Nitro V 15 (ANV15-52) is powered by up to an Intel® Core™ 7 processor 240H, with dedicated AI acceleration capabilities. Its 15.6-inch FHD (1920x1080) panel includes a 180 Hz refresh rate, 3 ms response time, and 100% support for the sRGB color spectrum. 

NitroSense and AI Features

With direct access to the control center and AI software suite via the new Experience Zone 2.0, users can directly control the laptop's performance and customizations with the Nitro Sense key. While Acer PurifiedView always puts users at the center of the action, Acer PurifiedVoice uses AI to block out outside noises during calls and in-game streaming. 

Price and Availability

Exact specifications, prices, and availability will vary by region. To learn more about availability, product specifications and prices in specific markets, please contact your nearest Acer office via www.acer.com.

Visit Acer’s Media Center for product images and specifications, or visit the Press Room to see all announcements.

About Acer 

Founded in 1976, Acer is one of the world’s top technology companies with a presence in more than 160 countries. The company continues to evolve by embracing innovation across its offerings, which include computers and displays, while branching out to new businesses. Acer is also committed to sustainable growth, exploring new opportunities that align with its environmental and social responsibilities. The Acer Group employs over 7,800 employees that contribute to the research, design, marketing, sales and support of products, solutions, and services that break barriers between people and technology. 

Visit www.acer.com for more information.

Ajinomoto Group Turning Aspirations into Achievements at Japan’s Leading Universities

"This scholarship is not just financial support—it is a transformative opportunity to broaden your horizons, advance your career, and make a lasting impact in your field." ~Rogie Royce Caradang, Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholar, Now a world-renowned Research

Rogie Royce Caradang was a college student with a dream and a global perspective prior to receiving the Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship. After graduating, he was certain that he wanted to continue his education and learn as much as he could about science.

Making a difference in the scientific community was Rogie Royce's greatest ambition. Additionally, he was looking for guidance prior to the Ajinomoto Foundation Scholarship Program. He applied and completed his postgraduate studies in Japan after realizing he was a good fit and a high achiever seeking to expand his horizons.

Carandang enrolled in the University of Tokyo's Master of Aquatic Natural Products Chemistry program in April 2013 and completed it in March 2016. His success led to him being hired as a Postdoctoral Fellow at The University of Connecticut Health after he was able to publish his research in a global journal. His experience is a prime example of how the Ajinomoto Postgraduate Scholarship can influence professional and personal development while having a worldwide impact.

His time in Japan changed his life. However, Carandang was aware that his progress would only be as great as his willingness to put in the necessary effort. However, by studying overseas and gaining a fresh perspective on his goals, he was able to make significant breakthroughs that could potentially result in the treatment of diseases like cancer. 

Carandang attributes his success to hard-work, finding the right focus, and then taking that leap off a springboard into more than he had ever thought he could achieve. 

Carandang's international prominence was facilitated by the Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship program. It is now his responsibility to demonstrate his abilities to the world. Those objectives now are far more ambitious than he could have ever dreamed of when he was a college student. As a scientist, all he could hope for was to see new problems, new solutions, and new dreams during his post-graduate studies. 

The Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship is a culturally immersive support program to encourage postgraduate studies in top universities in Japan. This grant supports deserving Filipino students looking to pursue master’s degree in Food Science and Technology, Human Nutrition, Chemistry, and Engineering. The Program is seeking applicants now for the 2026 cycle of awards. Visit https://www.ajinomoto.com.ph/whats-new-archive/2026-ajinomoto-foundation-postgraduate-scholarship-grant/ to know more.

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. In fiscal 2021, sales were 1.1149 trillion yen (8.73 billion U.S. dollars). To learn more, visit www.ajinomoto.com.