URC welcomes inclusion in list of best companies

MANILA, Philippines — Gokongwei-led food and beverage firm Universal Robina Corp. (URC) welcomed its inclusion as among the Asia-Pacific’s best 500 companies of 2025 by TIME Magazine.

URC is one of the 29 Philippine companies that made it to the World’s Best Companies of 2025 in the Asia-Pacific by TIME and Statista, ranking 329th.

“This list is extra-special for URC because it truly reflects the best that Asia has to offer and we are proud and honored to be a part of it,” URC president and CEO Irwin Lee said.

“It is a direct recognition of the dedication, hard work and collective effort of every individual within our organization. It’s a testament to the strength of our team, our shared vision and the unwavering commitment we all bring to our work each day,” he said.

Lee said that the inclusion in the list is an affirmation that the company remains a “collaborative and delightful workplace where employees can create their journey and turn it into their own successful growth story.”

“We put people first. People are at the center of everything we do,” he said.

According to Lee, URC has emerged as an industry leader and employer of choice by solidifying and effectively communicating its brand image.

“We enrich our talent pipeline by attracting the right candidates and growing the careers of current employees. Taken altogether, these have resulted in employee engagement and pride,” he said.

Apart from employee satisfaction, TIME and Statista also took into account revenue growth as well as rigorous environmental, social and corporate governance, areas in which URC also excelled.

URC is one of the Philippines’ largest food and beverage companies, producing iconic brands such as Great Taste, C2 Cool & Clean, Piattos, Maxx candy and Cream-O cookies.

It also has a significant and growing presence in ASEAN, with leading regional brands such as Lexus, Tivoli and Fun-O.