For generations, Filipino families have gathered around meals that create lasting memories - from hearty caldereta at reunions to sweet fruit salad during Noche Buena celebrations. At the core of these cherished traditions lies a remarkable story that began in Bukidnon a century ago, weaving together land, people, and enduring goodness that continues to shape Filipino households today.
A Century of Sustainable Farming in Bukidnon
As Del Monte Philippines prepares to mark its 100th anniversary in 2026, the company celebrates not just its legacy as a trusted pantry staple but its profound role in nourishing communities and building the nation. The company has cultivated more than 30,000 hectares of farmland in Bukidnon, transforming the region through sustainable practices that have made the plantation carbon-negative.
This environmental achievement stems from comprehensive initiatives including the planting of over 700,000 trees, implementing sophisticated water recycling systems, and pioneering soil conservation methods designed to protect the land for future generations. The company's philosophy centers on the belief that true nourishment begins at the source - when the land thrives, everything it produces can genuinely nurture goodness.
Empowering Communities Through Education and Livelihood
The human element of Del Monte's century-long journey is equally impressive. Behind every pineapple harvested stands the 24,000-strong workforce that forms the Del Monte family - multiple generations of farmers and employees who consider Bukidnon their home. The company has established a self-sustaining community providing free housing, schools, hospital facilities, and recreational spaces for employees and their families.
Through the Del Monte Foundation, established in 1994 though the company had already opened eight schools in Bukidnon before its formation, the culture of care extends far beyond plantation boundaries. The Foundation's impact includes:
- 17 school buildings constructed with assistance provided to 204 educational institutions
- 8,000 classroom chairs donated along with learning kits for 117 pre-schools and day care centers
- More than 1,700 scholarship graduates produced, with 300 scholars currently supported
- Over 17,000 individuals trained in livelihood programs since 1994
Innovating for Filipino Families and Celebrating Partnerships
Del Monte's presence in Filipino kitchens spans generations, from classic pineapple tidbits and slices rich in Vitamin C and fiber to innovative products like 100% Pineapple Juice with PiñaPhyto5 and Tomato Sauce with LycoNutrients. The company continues to expand its nourishing offerings with Mr. Milk dairy beverages, Potato Crisp snacks, and Fruity Zing - an affordable juice drink for everyday enjoyment.
The beloved Del Monte Kitchenomics, which began as a pioneering television program, now thrives as a vibrant online community inspiring home cooks to create memorable meals. To commemorate its centennial milestone, Del Monte introduces a Centennial Packaging Refresh featuring a bold, modern design that reflects 100 years of trust, innovation, and goodness.
The celebration extends through strategic partnerships that embody the Filipino spirit of Kaayo - the goodness that uplifts and connects communities:
- Disney collaboration featuring family promotions awarding 100 households all-expense-paid trips for four to Hong Kong Disneyland
- Uniqlo partnership with "Wear the Goodness" UTMe! shirts and tote bags inspired by Del Monte colors, plus exclusive Del Monte-themed drinks at Uniqlo Coffee
- Auro Chocolate collaboration creating freeze-dried pineapple coated in single-origin white chocolate
- Jamba Juice initiative donating ₱5 from every Aloha Pineapple smoothie or Piña Colada refresher to support Del Monte's farming communities
The centerpiece of the centennial celebration is The Kaayo Film, a tribute to how goodness first took root in Bukidnon and grew through generations of farmers, families, and Filipino homes.
Reflecting on the company's century of impact, Del Monte COO and President Luis F. Alejandro stated: "As we look at the last 100 years, we have nourished not only products, but the land, our employees, our barangays, and every partner in this operation. We would not have reached a century if we did not nurture generations of people and the communities we serve."
From its Bukidnon roots to Filipino homes across the archipelago, Del Monte's story of Kaayo demonstrates that when goodness is carefully cultivated, it grows exponentially - nourishing lives, strengthening families, and building communities that endure for generations to come.
