MALVAR, Batangas — As Universal Robina Corporation (URC) marks its 70th anniversary this year, the company recently inaugurated its Malvar Mega Plant, marking a major milestone in its long-term growth strategy, and reaffirming its commitment to strengthening Philippine manufacturing.
“For 70 years, URC has taken pride in delighting generations of consumers with good food choices,” said Irwin C. Lee, URC’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “Seven years in the making, the Malvar Mega Plant is a testament to that commitment as we continue to strengthen our capabilities and delight consumers with quality food choices for generations to come.”
The inauguration brought together URC executives, national and local government leaders, industry partners, employees, and members of the Malvar community for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and the lowering of a time capsule, signaling the opening of what will become a key driver of the company's future growth.
“We have been part of the everyday lives of millions of families – from their first cup of coffee in the morning, to the iconic snacks and beverages they enjoy with family and friends,” URC Chairman Lance Y. Gokongwei said in his speech. “But staying close to the heart of Filipino families also means we must continue to evolve, innovate, and prepare for the future. This mega plant marks an important new chapter in our journey. It is a cornerstone of our next phase of growth and a symbol of our commitment to the future.”
Hon. Artemio ‘Tom’ C. Abu, Mayor of Malvar, Batangas, said “the opening of the Malvar Mega Plant marks more than the inauguration of a new manufacturing facility—it represents new opportunities and a brighter future for the people of Malvar. We welcome this milestone and the lasting value it will create for our community through jobs, growth, and stronger partnerships.”
Built on a 31-hectare site in Malvar, Batangas, the facility was designed as URC’s “Factory of the Future,” bringing together advanced manufacturing technologies, digitalization, automation, and sustainable engineering to enhance operational efficiency, product quality, and workplace safety.
The investment comes as Philippine manufacturing continues to evolve, with the Philippine Statistics Authority reporting that manufacture of food products grew by 6.2% year on year in the fourth quarter of 2025, making it the largest contributor to manufacturing growth during the period.
The facility was built with a long-term masterplan that allows the site to expand alongside URC’s future growth, optimizing the flow of people and materials to improve productivity while ensuring compliance with food safety, quality, and operational standards. It is currently producing URC’s well-loved snacks, Piattos and Mang Juan, while a new bakery facility and a ready-to-drink (RTD) manufacturing operation are already in the pipeline as the site continues to grow over the coming years.
The Malvar Mega Plant serves as both a celebration of the company's legacy and a foundation for its future—advancing smarter manufacturing, driving continued innovation, and strengthening its commitment to delight generations of consumers for years to come.
URC produces iconic brands such as Great Taste, C2 Cool & Clean, Piattos, Maxx candy and Cream-O cookies, which have been part of Filipinos’ lives for seven decades. One of the country’s largest food and beverage manufacturers, URC also has significant, and growing, presence in ASEAN. 
