Partnerships, purpose and people: CDO celebrates 50 years

One of the Philippines’ largest and most trusted homegrown food companies marked its golden anniversary with a two-day celebration on 24 and 25 June, honoring five decades of partnership, purpose and people.

CDO Foodsphere, Inc. held these festivities at SMX Convention Center in Pasay City, bringing together more than 2,000 guests, including trade, industry partners and government officials on the first day and 4,000 employees from across the organization on the second day.

Over the past five decades, CDO has made a significant impact on the nation’s food industry and on the lives of millions of Filipino consumers — offering quality, affordable food products that bring families together.

Its 50th anniversary is a celebration of a company that started from a simple home kitchen and has grown into a key part of Filipino mealtimes, contributing to the local economy, supporting communities and championing Filipino entrepreneurship.

The milestone event was led by founder and chairperson Corazon Dayro Ong, who looked back on the company’s simple beginnings in their small kitchen in Valenzuela. “My dream was simple: To create food that brings the warmth of home. I never dreamt of having this large of an enterprise,” she said, offering heartfelt thanks to the partners and the broader community that helped make the journey possible.

President and CEO Jerome D. Ong emphasized how CDO’s growth is deeply rooted in collaboration. “This celebration is not just about us, it’s about all of you who believed in us, stood by us and helped us grow,” he said. He also spoke about the company’s transformation journey, emphasizing the need to be relevant and responsive to the needs of its customers through innovation, leadership and a commitment to building a better future.

During the external celebration on 24 June, Dr. Charmaine Ong-Castro, senior vice president for Corporate Purchasing, Treasury and Governance, recognized the integral role of its partners in the company’s success. She delivered a message of gratitude, acknowledging the enduring trust and support of CDO’s suppliers, trade partners and stakeholders over the last five decades.

Jason D. Ong, vice president for Emerging Businesses, spoke of CDO’s broader mission to uplift lives, not just through food and advocacy, but also through product innovation that responds to evolving consumer needs and drives lasting impact. He highlighted the work of the Odyssey Foundation, CDO’s corporate social responsibility arm, and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to nation-building through its programs in Kalusugan (health), Kabuhayan (livelihood), Karunungan (education) and Kalikasan (environment).

June 25 saw the company honor its employees, gathering over 4,000 team members on the second day for a meaningful internal event. The program paid tribute to the late Jose J. Ong, CDO’s co-founder and husband of Corazon Ong. His role as both a visionary and driving force in CDO’s early days was remembered with deep respect and affection.

In his remarks, Jerome Ong reaffirmed the company’s promise to invest in its people and remain future-ready. “This 50th anniversary is not just a celebration of our past; it is a commitment to our future,” he said.

Their people-first focus is central to CDO’s success. As part of the celebration, the company launched the Golden Spoon Awards to recognize employees for their outstanding performance, contributions and embodiment of company values. CDO also honored long-serving team members, including 80 remarkable individuals who have been with the organization for 30 to 44 years. A surprise special award was given to the Founder for 50 years of service. Through these tributes, CDO affirms that its greatest strength lies in its people, their passion, commitment and dedication they bring to their roles.

Both days were elevated by electrifying performances from some of the country’s biggest stars. For the external celebration, CDO brand endorsers Sarah Geronimo and Matteo Guidicelli lit up the stage alongside the legendary Gary Valenciano, and an after party set by Juan Miguel Salvador — setting the tone for an unforgettable evening. 

On Day 2, the energy soared even higher. Employees were treated to an all-star lineup that brought the house down, Vice Ganda and P-pop sensation BINI, both beloved CDO brand endorsers, thrilled the crowd with their show-stopping numbers. Sarah, Matteo and Gary V returned to deliver another round of high-energy performances that had everyone on their feet. The event was hosted by Dimples Romana — long-time CDO ambassador — and Sam YG, both adding star wattage and warmth to the celebration.

As the celebration ended, CDO Foodsphere’s message was clear: the journey continues. With a strong foundation, enduring partnerships and a growing community, the company looks ahead to the next 50 years — committed to its purpose of bringing families and generations together through delicious food, across the nation and beyond.