Driving Innovation in Sustainable Packaging: Ajinomoto Philippines at Hyper Interdisciplinary Conference in the Philippines 2025

Plastic pollution continues to be one of the most pressing environmental issues globally, defying decades of efforts to curb its impact. Alarmingly, the Philippines has been identified as the third-largest contributor to global plastic pollution, largely due to the country’s high generation of plastic waste and its widespread reliance on single-use plastic packaging, particularly in the form of sachets. This ongoing challenge underscores the urgent need for stronger waste management systems, increased public awareness, and the promotion of sustainable alternatives to reduce the nation’s plastic footprint. 

In response to the growing challenge of plastic pollution, various industries have been actively developing strategic initiatives to help address the issue. Among them is Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC), which has pledged to transition to 100% recyclable packaging by 2030 as part of its sustainability commitment. APC is bringing this advocacy to the Hyper Interdisciplinary Conference (HIC) in the Philippines, happening on November 8, 2025, at Quezon City University – Main Campus.

During the event, Ajinomoto will take part in a panel discussion themed “Sustainable Food Packaging: Wrapping Flavors with Science.” The session seeks to explore how science, innovation, and collaboration can be harnessed to develop effective and sustainable food packaging, one that strikes a balance between functionality, cost efficiency, and environmental responsibility. The discussion will feature diverse perspectives, bringing together industry leaders integrating sustainability into operations, designers redefining materials and consumer experiences, business experts emphasizing scalability and profitability, and scientists ensuring safety, compliance, and continuous innovation.

SESSION PANELISTS
Mr. Jaypee Dela Cruz Research and Development Manager Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation	Jay Pee is a BS Packaging Engineering graduate (magna cum laude) of Central Philippine University (Jaro, Iloilo City). A dedicated Packaging Professional with more than 10 years of experience in food packaging development, sustainable packaging solution development, project management, and continuous improvement. In his current role as R&D Packaging Manager, he is responsible for developing plastic and cost reduction strategies and delivering sustainable packaging initiatives. He also leads packaging-related technical support to provide solutions through process optimization, quality troubleshooting and productivity improvement.
Ms. Julienne Stephanie Fabie-Agapin Founder and Chief Executive Officer FiberForms Creatives	Julienne is a Faculty Researcher and Extension Associate at Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), leading projects that fuse science, sustainability, and social impact. Her research focuses on transforming agricultural waste into eco-friendly, value-added materials that support environmental care and livelihood generation. She is the inventor of UNVAS, a brand that turns dried banana leaves into sustainable home, lifestyle, and school products benefiting PDLs, displaced OFWs, working youth, and other marginalized groups. Julienne also developed active packaging films from cacao pods and calamondin peels for better food preservation and created Cacaban Leather, an eco-leather alternative from the same materials. Her work has gained support from WMSU, DOST-PCHRD, DOST Region IX, and DOST-TAPI through its GALING and HIRANG 2.0 programs. Recognized nationally and internationally, including a Silver Medal at the Korea International Women Inventors’ Exposition, she champions inclusive innovation and circular economy initiatives.
Mr. Matt Rafael M. Genito Chief Executive Officer PackUp Management Consultancy Services	Matt is a dedicated professional and rising leader in the specialized field of Packaging Engineering. He is currently pursuing a pioneering degree in Packaging Engineering at Central Philippine University, where he has also been active in campus governance and professional organizations. As the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of PackUp Management Consultancy Services, an award-winning startup recognized for its innovative packaging and labeling solutions, Matt effectively bridges academic knowledge and real-world application. His expertise is acknowledged by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Region VI, where he serves as a Technical Expert and Consultant on Packaging and Labelling. He was also named Most Promising CEO by CPUGAD TBI during SKYBOUND: The CPUGAD TBI Year One Culminating Activity. With core competencies in logistics, procurement, project management, and sustainable packaging, Matt continues to advance the discipline through innovation, leadership, and a deep commitment to industry excellence.

To further its engagement, Ajinomoto will have a dedicated booth at the event, providing attendees with the opportunity to engage with representatives and learn more about the company’s sustainability advocacy, innovative products, and ongoing initiatives. Visitors are encouraged to drop by the booth to connect and exchange insights on advancing sustainability through science and technology. 

About Hyper Interdisciplinary Conference in the Philippines 2025

• Date: November 8, 2025
• Time8:00 AM ~ 6:00 PM
• VenueQuezon City University - Main
• Theme: Decoding Traditions, Recoding Innovation: Navigating Toward Adaptive Solutions

the Hyper Interdisciplinary Conference (HIC) serves as a dynamic platform that unites researchers, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders from diverse disciplines to exchange knowledge and explore innovative ideas and technologies. HIC fosters meaningful collaboration and accelerates the creation of solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges. 

For this HIC PH 2025, the conference adopts the theme “Decoding Traditions, Recoding Innovation: Navigating Toward Adaptive Solutions.” This theme highlights the intrinsic connection between science and culture, recognizing that cultural perspectives influence how societies understand and apply scientific advancements, just as science continuously reshapes and enriches cultural practices.

With its objective of building an inclusive and collaborative environment, HIC PH 2025 aims to bridge traditional knowledge and modern science, inspiring an adaptive mindset where solutions remain flexible, evolving, and responsive to the ever-changing needs of communities.

Be part of the dialogue that connects culture and science! Register today as a regular attendee using the form or QR code below:

https://global.lne.st/Attend-HICPH2025

For more information about the Hyper Interdisciplinary Conference in the Philippines 2025, please visit: https://hic.lne.st/en/schedule/ph2025/.