Food Rescue: From Surplus to Shared Value

The Food Rescue Initiative demonstrates how responsible retailing can generate meaningful social and environmental impact while remaining embedded in core business operations. Piloted in January 2023, in partnership with Scholars of Sustenance Philippines (SOSPH), the program leveraged pilot learnings to refine implementation and support broader rollout.

As of 2025, the initiative has been implemented across 134 stores under the food segment, with Robinsons Supermarket stores in the Cebu province also participating through Rise Against Hunger as the food rescue partner. Since its inception in 2023, the food segment has rescued 169,197 kilograms of surplus food, enabling the distribution of more than 710,000 meals to partner communities while preventing an estimated 428,067 kilograms of carbon emissions. By diverting food from landfills, the program has also generated cost efficiencies, with Php2 million to Php3.5 million in avoided hauling and disposal expenses.

The initiative reached a key milestone in December 2025 when Robinsons Supermarket and SOSPH supported the preparation of 5,000 freshly cooked meals in a single day—the largest one-day cook in SOSPH’s history. The program has strengthened partnerships with over 100 NGOs, barangays, and community organizations, several of which have established food rescue kitchens that further amplify impact by converting rescued food into nutritious meals.

Looking ahead, RRHI plans to expand the Food Rescue Initiative to more stores and further integrate surplus recovery into store-level practices, supported by employee volunteer participation. The initiative’s contribution to stewardship and sustainability was recognized at the Gokongwei Group’s 14th Pride in Performance Awards in April 2025, where it received Second Place under the Stewardship – Sustainability Journey category.

Closing the Loop on Plastics Empowering local farmers and fisherfolk

Heart To Cart

Robinsons Supermarket remains committed to empowering local farmers and promoting locally sourced products through its Heart to Cart program. In partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Supply Chain and Logistics Group, DTI Region 2, and Nueva Vizcaya Agricultural Terminal, Inc. (NVAT) under the Market Linkage Program, the initiative strengthens direct market access for farmers while ensuring that fresh, locally grown produce reaches Filipino households. By reinforcing linkages across the supply chain, the program supports livelihood development, community empowerment, and greater visibility for local producers.

Good Morning Festival

Robinsons Supermarket advanced support for local coffee farmers through the Good Morning Festival 2024, rallying assistance for the Batanggason Farmers Association of Lantapan, Bukidnon. The campaign culminated on November 25, 2025, reinforcing the farmers’ partnership with the Nestle Net Zero Project, which promotes agricultural practices that enhance soil health and contribute to carbon capture. Farmers were also provided with support packages in recognition of their role in the value chain, underscoring our continued focus on strengthening sustainable agriculture and the communities behind locally sourced products.

Trees of Wellness

Further advancing our commitment to sustainable agriculture and community development, Robinsons Supermarket partnered once again with Century Pacific Food, Inc. and Friends of Hope for Trees of Wellness 2025, an initiative delivering sustained impact in General Santos and neighboring communities. Over the past three years, Trees of Wellness has facilitated the planting of 7,700 coconut trees, benefiting at least 77 farmers. This year, the program has supported the planting of an additional 7,500 coconut trees, further advancing sustainable agricultural development and long-term community growth.

health and wellness

Robinsons Retail’s Food Segment continues to champion health and wellness through initiatives designed to inspire nutritious choices, support active lifestyles, and strengthen overall community well-being.

supporting children and schools

Through Robinsons Supermarket’s Fit Kids campaign, we had the privilege of spending a meaningful day with the children of Kythe Foundation, Inc. during its Summer Camp in Mabalacat. Set against a backdrop of shared laughter and encouragement, the day became a celebration of resilience, hope, and community. Beyond the activities and shared meals, what stood out most were the genuine moments of connection.

This experience reaffirmed that being a “Fit Kid” goes beyond healthy eating. It is about nurturing confidence, fostering emotional well-being, and creating safe spaces where children feel empowered and supported. It is about building a caring community that uplifts, inspires, and ensures that every child is given the opportunity to thrive.

Further strengthening our support for children’s health and nutrition, Robinsons Easymart and Alaska Milk Corporation marked the third year of their partnership by distributing 12,000 glasses of Alaska Fortified Milk and baon packs to the students of Mayamot Elementary School. Through sustained collaboration, the initiative reflects a shared commitment to nurturing young minds and support the well-being of students, one glass at a time.

Building on this collaboration, we also conducted a Kitchen of Hope activity together with Save the Children Philippines, where students learned to prepare simple, nutritious meals using Alaska products. Each child also received The Marketplace loot bags, reinforcing lessons on proper nutrition and well-being.

In parallel, The Marketplace strengthened its support for schools through environmental stewardship by donating 100 armchairs made from recycled plastics collected in stores to EM’s Signal Village Elementary School in Taguig City. By transforming discarded materials into durable classroom furniture, we not only reduced waste, but also helped create a more comfortable and conducive learning environment for students.

animals in our care

Robinsons Retail’s Food Segment broadens its commitment beyond food by championing animal welfare and responsible pet ownership through initiatives that support rescued animals and honor the meaningful bond between pets and their families.

In celebration of National Pets Day 2025, Robinsons Supermarket, together with CORA Philippines and Boracay Animal Adoption and Rescue Center (BAARC), extended support to rescued dogs and cats in need as part of its continuing animal welfare initiatives. Essential dog and cat supplies, along with Robinsons gift certificates, were provided to help sustain shelter operations and enable more animals to be rehabilitated and rehomed to loving families. Robinsons Supermarket employees also spent time with the rescued animals, gaining deeper appreciation for the dedication behind BAARC’s mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and find permanent homes for abandoned and neglected animals in Boracay.

Reinforcing this advocacy at the community level, Shopwise Pet Fair brought together pet owners and animal lovers for a day dedicated to their furry companions. From free grooming and vaccinations to engaging games, a pet fashion show, and curated treats, the event fostered joyful and meaningful interactions. Beyond the festivities, Shopwise supported Project Kuna, a local non-government organization dedicated to rescuing and caring for abandoned dogs and cats. Through this collaboration, the initiative advanced responsible pet ownership and strengthened animal welfare advocacy within the community.

Extending its stewardship beyond land to sea, The Marketplace continued its long-standing partnership with Save Philippine Seas through the launch its summer tote bags, “Making Waves” and “Turtle-y Amazing.” Marking six years of shared advocacy, the initiative encouraged customers to reduce single-use plastics and make more sustainable choices, one reusable bag at a time. Proceeds from the collection supported shark conservation efforts through the Pating Patrol Workshop, advancing marine education and protection efforts.

awards and recognition

Robinsons Retail’s Food Segment continues to uphold a culture of excellence, delivering world-class products and services while prioritizing the safety, quality, and satisfaction of our customers.