Magnolia, the iconic Filipino brand known for its dairy and chicken products, celebrated its 100th
anniversary on August 4, reaffirming its commitment to offering quality products while supporting small
businesses, retailers, and local producers.
Founded in 1925 and acquired by San Miguel Brewery, Magnolia began as a small ice cream operation
in Manila. Over the past century, it has grown into a leading brand offering a wide range of dairy,
chicken, spreads, and ready-to-cook products under food and beverage giant San Miguel Corporation
(SMC).
We got invited to the Modern-Filipiniana themed event to celebrate the iconic years of Magnolia. I love reminiscing all my Magnolia memories, especially the Magnolia Chocolate Drink (in glass bottle – still wishing they would bring this back!), and the memories of buying Magnolia Ice Cream every Sunday that I shared with my siblings. I still remember how we always fought over which flavor to buy.
Judah Ruiz, General Manager of Magnolia Inc.- Dairy & Coffee MC Chairman and CEO Ramon S. Ang said Magnolia’s future will focus not only on innovation but also on helping the people and businesses behind the brand—from farmers and truck drivers to sari- sari store owners and carinderia operators.
Magnolia’s well-loved endorsers and ambassadors: Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo, Marian Rivera-Dantes, and Alden Richards
He added: “Magnolia is part of Filipino life, from everyday meals to special occasions. As we move forward, we will continue to create more products for more families, while also providing opportunities to the small businesses and individuals who bring our products to homes across the country.”
The brand, which introduced many industry firsts in the Philippines – including the use of refrigerated trucks, Magnolia Chocolait in glass bottles, and chicken stations selling fresh chicken in supermarkets —now offers ice cream, butter, mayonnaise, ready-to-cook meals, and more. It sources a majority of its raw materials from local suppliers and works with thousands of small-scale retailers nationwide.
Lumpia Queen, Abi Marquez and Marvin Agustin
It has also played a big role in supporting livelihoods across its value chain – from farmers and truck drivers to sari-sari store owners, market vendors, home bakers, and carinderia cooks, among many others.
Ang said the company will continue to provide opportunities for those who help bring Magnolia products within reach of Filipino households.
Magnolia is operated by San Miguel Foods, a division of San Miguel Food and Beverage, Inc. San Miguel said the brand’s centennial year will include more initiatives that support community-based retailers and promote Filipino-made products.
Thank you Magnolia for having me, and happy 100 years!
