Century Pacific Food, Inc., one of the Philippines’ leading food companies, is aiming to sustain its double-digit growth in the first quarter amid slower inflation while US tariffs are seen to have a minimal impact on the company.

“While it’s still early in the year, we aim to continue our growth trajectory in the coming quarters. We remain cautiously optimistic—mindful of ongoing global market volatility and cost-related headwinds,” said CNPF Chief Finance Officer Richard S. Manapat.

He noted that, “Our exposure to recent US tariff actions is limited, though we continue to monitor developments closely. We navigate this dynamic environment with a keen eye on both risks and opportunities, recognizing that agility and responsiveness are key to sustaining our momentum.

“Against this backdrop, we reaffirm our double-digit growth outlook for both revenue and profit—anchored on our mission of delivering accessible, affordable nutrition to the consumers we serve.”

CNPF reported that its first quarter net income grew by 11 percent to ₱1.9 billion this year as sales improved by 10 percent to ₱19.9 billion on the back of an accelerating Branded business.

The Branded segment, which comprised the bulk of CNPF sales, outperformed during the quarter, clocking in a 13 percent increase year-on-year (YoY) and a seven percent sequential improvement.

Key subcategories – Marine, Meat, and Milk & Other Emerging segments – reported growth from the comparable period last year, supported by an improving consumer landscape amidst easing inflation.

Meanwhile, CNPF’s OEM Tuna and Coconut Exports segment experienced a slight pullback in this reporting period, lapping a high 2024 base and facing an unfavorable commodity cycle.

The segment softened by two percent YoY, while registering a sequential improvement of 10 percent quarter-on-quarter (QoQ).

“We are pleased to report that we’re off to a good start and are on track thus far. Our multi-cycle business model continues to work in our favor – this time with Branded leading the way, more than offsetting the softness in OEM Exports.

“We are relieved to see a healthier consumer environment and hope this good momentum continues throughout the year,” said Manapat.

The sustained impact of brand-building efforts from the previous year, new campaigns, innovations, and expanded capacity are also contributing to CNPF’s performance.

For the period, the company reported a stable gross margin at 26.2 percent, reflecting a mild 10-basis point uptick from the comparative period, supported by carryover inventories from the previous year.

Disciplined spending led operating expenses as a percentage of sales to decrease by 70 basis points to 14.5 percent, mitigating the unfavorable impact of forex movements on other income.

As a result, earnings before income, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) margin was largely sustained at 14.0 percent, while net profit margin remained stable at 9.6 percent.