Seafood holds a cherished place in both Japanese and Filipino cuisines, reflecting a deep cultural appreciation for its freshness and quality as a key ingredient in daily and occasional meals, alike. In 2019, according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, Japan stood out as the world’s fifth largest consumer of seafood, with an average consumption of 46.06kg per person. Renowned for its rich culinary heritage and diverse seasonal seafood offerings, Japan consistently ranks as among the world’s top consumers of the finest marine-based cuisine. Meanwhile, in the Philippines, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources reports that seafood, particularly fish and its derivatives, ranks second in consumption among Filipinos, following rice. This dietary preference not only highlights seafood as a vital source of more affordable protein alternatives for Filipinos but also calls attention to its significant role in Filipino cuisine and nutrition.
Recognizing the importance of seafood in the Philippine context, Cold Storage, a pillar in the frozen seafood industry with a robust 27-year legacy in the nation’s premium frozen seafood sector, has embarked on a pioneering endeavor dubbed “GenSea: Dive into Sustainability.” In partnership with Save Philippine Seas (SPS), a non-profit organization dedicated to conserving marine environments and biodiversity, this initiative aligns with the cultural reverence for seafood and underscores a shared commitment to ocean sustainability.
A strategic alliance with SPS
GenSea transcends mere advocacy for sustainable fishing and sourcing practices; it marks a strategic collaboration between Cold Storage Seafood and Save Philippine Seas. Through educational initiatives— like the development of educational materials and hosting regular forums on sustainable seafood practices—fundraising events, and adhering to industry best practices, Cold Storage reaffirms its commitment to providing top-tier seafood choices while championing environmental conservation.
“Since 2019, Cold Storage has been taking steps towards more sustainable operations. It wasn’t easy, we were learning as we went along; but we are committed to doing our part in protecting our seas. We have always been open and eager to learn how to be better in this area of our business. As I have always shared with our team, ‘If we’re benefitting from it, we must do our best to protect it,’” Marco Qua, President at Cold Storage Seafood, pointed out at the recent inaugural event of the GenSea initiative.
Committed to excellence across markets
Bolstering its unwavering commitment to excellence, Cold Storage incorporates Japanese technology in its manufacturing and operations, integrating precision and innovation into its overall processes and its bid towards a more sustainability-centered mindset. Recognizing the pivotal role of fresh seafood in Japanese cuisine and the cultural ethos of sustainability that is at the east-Asian nation’s core, Cold Storage caters to the discerning Japanese market in the Philippines with the drive to hit those top targets. This demand for premium frozen seafood aligns perfectly with Cold Storage’s mission to deliver quality products while ensuring environmental stewardship.
As Morris Qua, VP of Operations at Cold Storage Seafood, stated: “At Cold Storage Seafood, we leverage cutting-edge Japanese technology to maintain the highest standards of seafood quality. Our use of blast freezers and contact freezers ensures that our products retain freshness and taste. We adhere to strict protocols during the reception of local catches to uphold quality from the moment the seafood arrives. Collaborating closely with Japanese technicians here in the Philippines, especially in the area of seafood exports, has been instrumental in refining our processes; a partnership that includes industry leaders like Maruha Nichiro, Mitsubishi, and Tokyo Seafoods Ltd.”
Safeguarding marine sustainability
At the launch of the GenSea program, Marco, the older of the two Qua brothers, emphasized the transformative impact of partnering with Save Philippine Seas, highlighting advancements in sustainable processes and products. This partnership underscores Cold Storage’s dedication to preserving marine ecosystems and delivering sustainable seafood solutions that meet high-quality standards.
‘GenSea’ is more than just an event; it is a movement dedicated to advocating for sustainable fishing practices and responsible sourcing.
Marco Qua, President at Cold Storage Seafood
“With Save Philippine Seas, we take our biggest leap yet towards sustainability. ‘GenSea’ is more than just an event; it is a movement dedicated to advocating for sustainable fishing practices and responsible sourcing. Our collaboration with SPS underscores our unwavering dedication to minimizing our ecological footprint and preserving marine ecosystems for generations to come,” Marco Qua said. “We aim to build a community of like-minded leaders who are passionate and genuinely curious about marine conservation. Our partnership with Save Philippine Seas is not just about discussions, it is about real action and meaningful impact. Together, we are committed to fostering trust and loyalty among conscientious consumers who value sustainability. We owe this much to our consumers and our partners,” he elaborated.
A unified commitment to ocean stewardship
In the Philippine context, where the Japanese market values freshness and sustainability in seafood, Cold Storage’s commitment resonates deeply. By promoting a circular economy within the food industry—minimizing waste, optimizing resources, and advocating for sustainable consumption—Cold Storage not only reduces its ecological footprint but also contributes to biodiversity conservation and food security. At the GenSea launch, the Philippine F&B industry was duly represented by a number of the country’s top chefs and innovators, all of whom expressed their commitment to amplifying the campaign’s reach, further nurturing a community dedicated to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship—principles that strongly align with the Japanese market’s preferences and values.
Cold Storage’s GenSea initiative, in collaboration with Save Philippine Seas, exemplifies a proactive approach to ocean sustainability. By integrating Japanese technology, catering to the Japanese market’s demand for premium sustainable seafood, and advocating for a circular economy, Cold Storage sets a precedent for responsible business practices. Together with stakeholders across the F&B sector and everyday consumers, they pave the way for a sustainable future where ocean stewardship is paramount—across oceans, cuisines, and cultures.
