Sony Music Entertainment Philippines and Shoti spread holiday cheer with this year’s ‘Season of Giving’ campaign

Sony Music Entertainment Philippines and Shoti spread holiday cheer with this year’s ‘Season of Giving’ campaign

Friday, December 8, 2023

The initiative is part of a campaign to engage the country in a fight to alleviate food insecurity and malnutrition

Sony Music Entertainment Philippines (SMEP) continues to give back to disadvantaged communities through food aid and relief.

This comes as part of Sony Music Group’s global ‘Season of Giving’ campaign, where the company and its artists are paying it forward to the countries in which the international music label operates. Across the world, SMG is supporting global organizations dedicated to providing aid for those facing food insecurity, homelessness and refugee support, as well as music industry relief and educational programs for communities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

This year, the international music label has partnered with Reach Out and Feed Philippines for a feeding program that provides assistance and relief to households in highly urbanized areas such as Barangay Damayang Lagi in Quezon City. Sony Music has been partners with them since last year, where they provided food aid, along with pop-rock band, NOBITA, to local communities impacted by the pandemic.

As reported by Reach out and Feed Philippines, the community-wide initiative has supported more than 100,000 individuals to date.

Reach Out and Feed Philippines extended their deepest gratitude to Sony Music for providing valuable support to the feeding outreach. “Their support is not just a contribution; it's a lifeline to those in need. Together, we're making a tangible difference, one meal at a time,” Dawn Cabigon, Founder and Chairperson of Reach Out and Feed Philippines said.

The team, which was headed by Sony Music, distributed healthy meals to indigent families. Shoti, one of the label’s recording stars, volunteered and serenaded the beneficiaries with his music, which includes a performance of the viral smash “LDR,” the new single “waiting 4 u (delulu),” and a rendition of the holiday classic “Jingle Bell Rock.”

"I’ve received a lot of blessings this year,” said the teen pop singer-songwriter. “And the least thing that I can do is to pay it forward in my own little way. I’m grateful to my Sony Music family and Brgy. Damayang Lagi for the opportunity to bring joy and inspiration to these families. I’m honored to have used my platform in enacting impactful changes within the community, and I hope to be of service to more people in the future.”

Shoti also encouraged the children and parents to join him on the LDR TikTok dance trend, which drew cheers and laughter among the participants. 

He’s one of the artists that supports Sony Music Entertainment’s countless philanthropic activities every year, with an utmost goal of creating valuable and positive social impact for a better future.

Roslyn Pineda, General Manager, Philippines, Sony Music Entertainment, expressed her gratitude to Shoti for his time and generosity to the cause. “I am incredibly proud of our young artist Shoti, who, at just 16 years old, displayed immense dedication and commitment by flying all the way from Cebu to Manila to participate in the feeding program organized by Reach Out and Feed Philippines. Shoti's willingness to go the extra mile to make a difference is truly inspiring.”

Season of Giving, a global initiative of Sony Music Group, runs throughout the holiday season in collaboration with charity partners across Africa, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, Canada, Continental Europe, Latin America, the United Kingdom, and the United States. 

Facilitating volunteer events in each region where they have an office presence, Sony Music Group through Sony Music Entertainment Philippines, showed an unwavering commitment to help secure the resources needed to serve the most vulnerable individuals and families in different parts of the world.

Pineda adds, “Sony Music Philippines is committed to continuing our Season of Giving initiatives and partnering with organizations like Reach Out and Feed Philippines to create a lasting change. Together with our artists, we will continue to use our platform to uplift and empower communities.”

This campaign also represents the company’s ongoing commitment to forge humanitarian partnerships and support communities that need it most, inside and outside the music industry.

Learn more about SMG’s giving approach here.

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Smile Train Launches First Cleft Leadership Center in the Philippines

Smile Train Launches First Cleft Leadership Center in the Philippines

Tuesday, August 8, 2023

Bound by a shared commitment to increasing access to cleft care, Smile Train, the world’s largest cleft-focused organization, and Noordhoff Craniofacial Foundation Philippines, Inc. (NCFPI) launches the country’s first Cleft Leadership Center (CLC). As Smile Train celebrates a milestone of supporting more than 75,000 cleft surgeries in the Philippines, the launch of this premier cleft center reinforces the organization’s continued dedication to providing enhanced progressive treatment, especially for cleft-affected Filipinos in need. 

“Smile Train celebrates its 75,000 cleft surgery milestone this year and, as we recognize this significant accomplishment, we know there is still more work ahead of us. The launch of the CLC represents our commitment to continuously providing safe, high-quality, and timely care for the Philippine cleft community by building a stronger, comprehensive cleft care system,” shared Kimmy Coseteng-Flaviano, Smile Train’s Vice President for Southeast Asia.

The CLC also serves as a regional hub for cleft care and training, anchored on Smile Train’s comprehensive approach and sustainable model for cleft treatment. The presence of the CLC in the country bridges the gap between the Philippine cleft community and their access to quality cleft care.

High-Quality Cleft Care 

The CLC is a multidisciplinary center that provides 100% free comprehensive cleft care from birth to adulthood, powered by a capable local network of medical professionals. 

Dental Room at the Cleft Leadership Center in Joshua Center, Taft, Manila

To reach more cleft-affected Filipinos in need, Smile Train strengthened its existing partnership with NCFPI, an organization that leads the standard of multidisciplinary cleft care in the Philippines. Both organizations work together to provide free, quality cleft care to Filipinos who would otherwise not be able to afford the treatment they need. 

“NCFPI is a long-time partner of Smile Train in bringing holistic cleft care to cleft-affected individuals in the Philippines. The CLC ensures that an individual’s treatment journey does not stop with cleft surgery but also requires other services necessary for them to live a full and healthier life,” said Dr. Bernard Tansipek, President of NCFPI. 

The CLC brings comprehensive cleft care closer to Filipinos as it houses different services necessary for holistic treatment and rehabilitation. All these can be found in NCFPI’s two sites: the Smile Train Craniofacial Center in Joshua Center, which has orthodontic and speech therapy services, and at the Our Lady of Peace Hospital in Parañaque where surgeries, orthodontics and dental treatment, nutrition services, and counseling are held.

The CLC also serves as a training and educational hub for local medical practitioners. The skills and experience of the cleft teams and state-of-the-art technology in these centers help build local medical capacity in treating different types of clefts, ensuring that Filipinos do not have to travel far to get access to high-quality cleft care. Smile Train supports NCFPI with the needed resources and enables them to help those in need. 

Going Beyond the 75k Smiles

The launch of the Philippines’ first CLC paves the way for more Filipinos to get the high-quality, safe, and free treatment they need. More than this, it also signals a more optimal outcome for every surgery through continuous innovation and development of care. 

For more information about Smile Train’s global efforts, please visit smiletrain.org. To learn more about Smile Train’s local programs in the Philippines, please visit smiletrain.ph, follow Smile Train Philippines on Twitter and Instagram @SmileTrainPh, and like us on Facebook at @SmileTrainPhilippines.

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Manulife moves with Pride as part of its continuing diversity, equity, and inclusion journey

Manulife moves with Pride as part of its continuing diversity, equity, and inclusion journey

Monday, July 3, 2023

Global financial services provider Manulife reaffirms its commitment to prioritizing and reinforcing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in its products, services, and employee programs to help create an inclusive work environment and safe spaces for all.

Since 2020, Manulife’s global investments of over US$3.5 million promote DEI across markets where it operates. In the Philippines, employee resource groups like Professionals Reaching Out for Unity and Diversity (PROUD) promotes an inclusive workplace for LGBTQ+ employees to encourage their full and unencumbered contributions at work. Recently, Manulife PROUD held a flag-raising event at the company’s head office branch in NEX Tower, Makati to mark the start of the Pride Month. Manulife employees in the Philippines also joined the Metro Manila Pride March and Festival at the Quezon City Memorial Circle to celebrate LGBTQ+ acceptance, achievements, and rights. This participation is in line with Manulife’s Impact Agenda to drive inclusive economic opportunities for all and empower sustained health and well-being through the launch of its Manulife MOVE for Staff mobile app.

To uphold its commitment of inclusivity among its customers, all of Manulife’s insurance products allow LGBTQ+ customers to name their domestic partners as beneficiaries.

“In Manulife, we recognize the diversity of relationships that exist in our society, so we remain committed to create inclusive spaces for our employees, customers, and the communities we serve. By offering relevant, affordable, and customizable products that protect Filipinos and their loved ones, regardless of their background, sexual orientation or gender, we not only recognize that DEI is a key driver of our business success, but we also propel ourselves forward to foster a culture of belonging where everyone feels included and respected,” said Melissa Henson, Chief Marketing Officer, Manulife Philippines. Henson is also the Philippine lead of Manulife’s DEI thrust

Manulife advocates for an inclusive work environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in their careers. Continuous learning courses include supporting LGBTQ+ talent in the workplace through upskilling initiatives and expert learning sessions that stir greater awareness of gender equality and active allyship. Through Pursuit, Manulife’s online platform for continuous learning, all employees can also take expert-led courses that enhance their business, communication, technology, and other field-focused skills, which help in their career progression. DEI-specific learning resources are also available to promote inclusive leadership, anti-racism and anti-discrimination practices, gender equality and allyship, and the impact of heteronormativity on mental wellness, among others. 

Across the global organization, in celebration of the Pride Month, Manulife have also hosted special virtual sessions as part of its Global Afternoon of Reflection and Learning, where Manulife employees around the world can learn more about topics like The Business of Inclusion, Trans-inclusive Healthcare Coverage, and The Role of Games in Learning & Inclusion.

“Diversity in the workplace drives innovation. By embracing DEI, our employees feel seen and heard to share their creative ideas, which helps us strategize better so we can develop more meaningful products and services that best serve our customers,” added Henson.

In 2020, the United Nations (UN) Women 2020 Asia-Pacific Women's Empowerment Principles (WEPs) Awards honored Manulife as one of the Philippines' most gender-inclusive workplaces and was the only insurance brand to have been recognized in the awards.

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SNAP-Magat supports Ligtas Buntis Congress in Ramon Isabela

SNAP-Magat supports Ligtas Buntis Congress in Ramon Isabela

Wednesday, May 17, 2023

 

As part of its commitment to extend care and support to women and children in its host communities, renewable energy solutions provider SN Aboitiz Power-Magat (SNAP-Magat) supported the ​​Ligtas Buntis Congress Medical and Dental Mission of the Municipality of Ramon, Isabela under SNAP-Magat’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program. 

Participating in the successful project at Ramon Multi-Purpose Hall on May 5, 2023 were 308 expectant mothers and 498 underweight preschoolers. 

In attendance were Ramon Municipal Vice Mayor Dennis Jon dela Cruz, members of Sangguniang Bayan, Ramon Rural Health Unit (RHU) physicians, and Ramon Freemasons.

The vice mayor thanked SNAP-Magat for the sponsorship through the company's CSR fund. During the activity, he stressed the importance of educating would-be moms about proper nutrition and care during pregnancy.

The congress' activities include health lectures from obstetrician-gynecologists of the Southern Isabela Medical Center, and free dental and medical consultations. SNAP-Magat also provided essential care packages for pregnant mothers and undernourished children.

Over the years, SNAP-Magat has supported health and safety projects in the community.

The "Ligtas Buntis" Campaign was launched by the Department of Health (DOH) to educate pregnant women about pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care.

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The Oola Dream Tour arrives in the Philippines with the goal of collecting one million dreams.

The Oola Dream Tour arrives in the Philippines with the goal of collecting one million dreams.

Friday, March 31, 2023

The Oola Dream Tour, a personal development and empowerment tour created by the Oola Guys and International best-selling authors, Dr. Dave Braun and Dr. Troy Amdahl, has arrived in the Philippines with a surfboard to collect hand-written dreams to add to their world-famous Oola Bus, which is currently covered in 31 layers of aspirations.

The Oola Dream Tour has visited various locations in the United States and Canada, offering participants a one-of-a-kind opportunity to develop, learn, and interact with others on a similar path, and they have now begun to make their impact in Asia.

In the Philippines, the Oola Dream Tour has been welcomed with open arms by locals, who have eagerly shared their dreams on stickers and added them to the surfboard. From entrepreneurs to students, everyone has an exceptional dream that they hope to achieve, and the Oola Dream Tour is helping them take the first step towards making it a reality.

"With the Oola Dream Tour what I found is we are not alone. We see it in every little city we pass through. We see people who are trying to be the best moms and best husbands, but they are pulled away by work," shared Oola founder Dr. Dave Braun.

"The people that need Oola the most at times, afford it the least. So, let’s get this tour across the country and let’s collect dreams around the world from people and say that it matters – fitness dream, financial dream, all dreams matter,” Dr. Troy Amdahl said about the start of the Oola Dream Tour and their goal to have a positive impact on a billion lives by giving what is affordable to everyone and the same information so they can live a better life.

The Oola Dream Tour is not just about collecting dreams, but also about inspiring people to take action towards achieving them. The tour typically comes with workshops, keynote speeches, and opportunities for attendees to connect with like-minded individuals and gain inspiration for their own goals.

The Oola Dream Tour has made a name for itself by providing a fun and engaging way for people to share their aspirations. With two guys and a bright and colorful Oola Bus, covered in stickers from people's dreams, they are going to continue travelling across different countries. Their goal is to change the world with a word (Oola). Their next stop would be at Thailand.

Visit the Oola Facebook page, for more details about the Oola Dream Tour Philippine leg - https://www.facebook.com/events/921306225665324 

 

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Grassroots esports teams play to help feed the hungry, break stigma on mental health

Grassroots esports teams play to help feed the hungry, break stigma on mental health

Sunday, February 26, 2023

Who would have thought that a mobile game tournament could be an opportunity to change lives?

 

For GameLab and Redlist, winning the recent GIGA Arena Street League, an esports tournament powered by Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) allowed them not only to showcase their skills in Mobile Legends, but also to extend help to those in need.

 

“Even if we are just playing, we are still able to help different communities who need our support. This event also opened a lot of doors for us and enabled us to enter the professional scene in Mobile Legends,” said Mark Ferry “Dokmen” Nazar, captain of GameLab.

 

GameLab was able to donate 325 kilos of sustainably grown rice worth P20,000 to Rise Against Hunger Philippines (RAH). The rice is sourced from rice growers in Santa Cruz Occidental, Mindoro supported by Smart’s ‘Buy Local’ program, who are practicing climate-smart and eco-friendly farming system.

 

RAH and Smart have been partners since December of last year through the “Rice Together!” program to help feed over 19,000 families in Manila, Pasig, and Laguna.

 

“Everybody has a role to play in addressing hunger. It is very heartwarming to know that the youth are also getting involved, because we are normally supported by big corporations. This donation will go a long way to feed many families,” said Jomar Fleras, Executive Director, Rise Against Hunger Philippines.

 

Third placer Redlist chose the Youth for Mental Health Coalition, a group of youth advocates that work to elevate the Filipino youth’s consciousness on mental health and end the stigma on mental illness, as their beneficiary. “Mental health is a very important part of our life. Because of the pandemic, this has become one of the biggest issues among the youth,” said Elmer Christian Dela Merced, team captain of Redlist. 

Redlist was able to donate seven (7) Smart Bro Pocket Wifi devices worth P10,000 with P1,000 worth of load cards that can be used by the organization to conduct trainings and activities for the youth.

 

“We would like to thank Redlist and Smart for this very generous gift. This will help us achieve our mission to raise the consciousness on mental wellness and end the stigma. Paulit-ulit naming sinasabi na ang kalusugang pangkaisipan ay isang kritikal na public health issue, hindi ito nabibigyan ng pansin. Wala mang pisikal na anyo, kinakailangan nating pangalagaan ang ating mental health dahil ito ay apektado at nakakaapekto sa ating pangkalahatang wellness,” said Ms Benica Ventilacion, Vice Chairperson for Finance and Legal Support, Youth for Mental Health Coalition. [We have always reiterated that mental health is a critical public health issue, and it does not get much attention. Even if it is not tangible, we need to take care of our mental health because it can affect our overall wellness.]

 

Empowering the Filipino youth

Following their win in the Street League tournament, GameLab shared that they have qualified in the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Development League (MDL), the second official league in the Philippines by Moonton. They are also part of the pool for SIBOL, the national team for esports, who might represent the Philippines in the upcoming Southeast Asian Games in Cambodia this year.

 

“This just shows that events like these go beyond connectivity and the network already. It is about empowering the youth, giving them opportunities to help them support their advocacies, and providing them a platform like GIGA Arena where they can showcase their talents to the world,” said Melvin Consunji Nubla, FVP and Group Head, Go-to-Market and Subscriber Management at Smart.

 

The Street League tournament held on Smart GIGA Arena (gigaarena.smart) is in line with Smart’s long-standing support for Philippine esports to cultivate the passion and talent of Filipino gamers. 

 

Gaming enthusiasts can continue to join local esports tournaments by logging in to GIGA Arena, the country’s first all-in-one esports platform for Filipino mobile gamers. The platform is open to all Smart and TNT customers and lets users match up with fellow players to compete in daily, weekly, and monthly tournaments for prestige and cash prizes. 

 

To continue enjoying the best gaming experiences powered by Smart, subscribers are encouraged to register their Smart and TNT SIM at http://www.smart.com/ph/simreg and receive 3GB free data upon successful registration. 

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For equal opportunities, we built a fashion school in the Philippines

For equal opportunities, we built a fashion school in the Philippines

This message from Ayumi Nishigawa, President, Non-Profit Organization DEAR ME, a social contribution through fashion.

 

On the 5th of this month, we opened the fashion school “coxco Lab”.

 

We are so happy to have the opening day with our wonderful students, teachers, colleagues and sponsors. Thank you to everyone who came to the opening ceremony and to all those who came from Japan to support us.

 

Fashion show activities with kids living in vulnerable communities in the Philippines started in 2015 when I was in 3rd year college. But the show alone won't change the lives of children or their futures. I've been aiming to establish a fashion school for about six years now, thinking that education and employment will be the key to helping them realize their dreams.

 

Four years ago, I quit my company for this challenge. It was a preparation period that I couldn't say it went well due to the Corona virus, but thanks to my friends and everyone who supported me, I finally was able to start.

 

The name of the school we opened is "coxco Lab". As a laboratory of the brand coxco which we currently operate, we have a vision where future school alumni can work with the brand.

 

The school is run by NPO, a non-profit organization, while the brand is LTD, limited. Creating a non-profit and profit chain will be the challenge ahead, and coxco will expand to the Philippines this year. Here's the real beginning. As always, I can't do anything alone so I'd appreciate your support! Thank you for your continued support.

 

And this time with the opening of the school, I've been closely connected to TV2 stations since last year! Please let me announce again if it goes on air.

 

About coxco Lab

 

Funded by Japan-based fashion brand coxco, the coxco Lab Fashion School, located in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines, operates as a vocational training school in collaboration with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.

 

For the first year, a fashion craft course will be conducted focused on sustainable fashion . Additional courses will be about clothing design and pattern, and total beauty.

 

Ten men and women aged 16 years old and above will be accommodated by the coxco Fashion Lab free of charge. Classes will be conducted by vocational school teachers.

 

The aim is to contribute to the self-reliance and independence of students and communities by further conducting classes on Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs, financial literacy and reproductive health education.

 

Marketing of the Lab’s products made by its students will primarily be with the group brand coxco. Promotion and sales support from other sponsor companies and through crowd funding will be utilized for the overall objective of creating education and employment opportunities in the future.

 

Together, let us create equal opportunities in our society.

 

NPO DEAR ME and coxco current partner non-government organizations are KnK Philippines and CHILDHOPE Philippines. Sponsor companies are Yogibo LLC., YAGI&CO.,LTD, UMU Technology Japan and MARUCHO Inc.

 

Those who would like to partner with NPO DEAR ME and coxco, please contact: Moe Komura. General Manager for Philippines, NPO DEAR ME through email: info@npodearme.com. Visit their website https://npodearme.com/ and follow their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/dearme2015.

 

 

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ASIAN CULTURAL COUNCIL AUCTION February 18, 2023

ASIAN CULTURAL COUNCIL AUCTION February 18, 2023

Saturday, February 4, 2023

Benefiting Filipino artists increasingly through the ACC cultural exchange grants program, Chairman Ernest Escaler and President Ma. Isabel Ongpin leads ACC Philippines Foundation to a series of program fundraisers this year commencing with the Asian Cultural Council Auction.

Leading up to its momentous 25th year, ACC Philippines revs up to the highly anticipated auction on February 18, 2023 in collaboration with staunch partner Leon Gallery and Director Jaime Ponce De Leon.

This year’s event banners some of the most sought-after, rare and important works of art by Philippine masters and celebrated icons.

Rounding up the series of global festivities following its affiliate offices in New York, Hong Kong, Japan and Taipei marking the 60th ACC founding anniversary, ACC Philippines is in high gear for a special benefit gala dinner scheduled for November this year.

Proceeds from the fundraisers go entirely to the ACC Philippine Fellowship Program which supports Filipino artists in their journeys of self-exploration and development through cultural exchange in the United States and/or intra-Asia. Since ACC’s founding in 1963, over 300 artists have received fellowship grants. The ACC alumni roll holds exceptional talent across all disciplines, some of whom have become National Artists. Among them are Jose Joya, Lucresia Kasilag, Lamberto Avellana, Alejandro Roces, Francisco Feliciano, Jose Maceda, Kidlat Tahimik, Ramon Santos and Alice Reyes.

The latest ACC grantees on their fellowship are:

SASA CABALQUINTO (Dance) Fellowship to the United States and Japan to conduct research, immersion and exploration on Butoh dance and diaspora.

ROCKY CAJIGAN (Visual Art) Fellowship to the United States to explore curatorial and programming activities in New York.

RADNEL OFALSA (Music) Fellowship to support his second and final year as a candidate for the Master of Music Degree at the Mannes School of Music, The New School, in New York City.

The Asian Cultural Council Auction welcomes collectors and art patrons on Saturday, Feb. 18, at Leon Gallery, Makati City. The auction starts promptly at 2:00pm. To know more about the auction visit www.leon-gallery.com 

To know more about ACC and its Programs, visit www.asianculturalcouncil.org

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Sinag Schools program powers up school in Batangas

Sinag Schools program powers up school in Batangas

Tuesday, August 23, 2022

SM Foundation (SMFI), the corporate social responsibility arm of the SM group, together with Maxeon Solar Technologies, recently powered up the Lemery Pilot Elementary School (LPES) in Batangas through the Sinag Schools program.

This social good collaboration between SMFI and Maxeon aims to provide clean and renewable energy to schools in grassroot communities by installing solar panels on an SM school building, especially to those that have low operating expenses.

In addition to the solar panel installation which intends to power positive change in the way energy is consumed in public schools, the program also aims to enhance the understanding of students in terms of energy management and the need to transition to cleaner energy alternatives with lower environmental impacts.

“Through this program, we want to power up the learning and development of young people. We want to help teach young people about solar energy, about renewable energy. We want to power up the next generation to help save our planet,” Maxeon Fab4 General Manager Glenn Everett said.

The SM school building at the LPES, which was donated by SMFI in partnership with SM Prime Holdings (SMPH) in 2017, now boasts 21 solar panels—estimated to produce 6510 watt-p. With the savings on electricity, the school may realign their budget to more efforts and other innovations that will give the students an environment more conducive to learning.

It takes a village to raise a child

SMFI executive director Debbie Sy underscored the importance of collective efforts in advancing the learning experience of every student in the country: “We believe that collaboration can drive growth and become a force for good in addressing societal challenges. CSR partnerships can create solutions that improve society by fostering learning, promoting innovation and gaining access to new technologies, such as the Sinag schools program. CSR collaboration can pool resources, both financial and human resources - between multiple organizations which can amplify social good impact.”

“The establishment of an ever-evolving CSR strategy and partnerships will help companies and non-government organizations in developing and implementing crucial social good programs over decades while having procedures in place that integrate social and environmental priorities into CSR core strategy – all in close collaboration with stakeholders,” she further added.

Moreover, Everett mentioned how SMFI and Maxeon share the similar set of values and interest when it comes to helping Filipino learners: “We have this concept of powering positive change in the world. We are happy to be working together with SM Foundation to power up the Lemery Pilot Elementary School.”

“Individually, we can do so much. But together we can do actually more. For us to bring our solar technology and SMFI to bring in their schools, these things are much better together than they would be apart,” he concluded.

Spreading social good all the way

SM Foundation made sure to truly touch the lives of the learners and teachers of LPES as it donated eight desktop computers, 200 bags with school supplies, and more than 160 pcs brand new kinder and elementary books to further promote the love for reading among the students. Clothing items for parents were also distributed.

For more information about this initiative, follow SM Foundation on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube: @SMFoundationInc.

Maxeon is headquartered in Singapore. The company designs, manufactures, and sells Maxeon® and SunPower® brand solar panels. Maxeon has sales operations in more than 100 countries, operating under the SunPower brand in certain countries outside the United States. Maxeon is a leader in solar innovation with products that span the global rooftop and solar power plant markets through a network of more than 1,700 trusted partners and distributors. A pioneer in sustainable solar manufacturing, Maxeon leverages a +35-year history in the solar industry and numerous awards for its technology.

SM Foundation, through its School Building Program, is an active partner of DepEd’s Adopt-a-School program. This social good initiative aims to promote quality public education by building classrooms nationwide. To date, it has turned over more than 100 school buildings to grassroots communities.

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SM Cares holds Emergency Preparedness Forum for senior citizens, PWDs anew

SM Cares holds Emergency Preparedness Forum for senior citizens, PWDs anew

Monday, August 1, 2022

In celebration of the National Disaster Resilience Month, SM Cares held its annual Emergency Preparedness Forum for PWDs and Senior Citizens, aimed to teach these most vulnerable groups on how to become prepared and resilient in times of emergencies and disasters. This is the 6th iteration of the project.

The event attended by more than 700 people was held at the SM North EDSA Skydome in Quezon City last July 22. This is the second of six venues where SM Cares will hold the forum for this year. 

“Being resilient is not just for the young and strong. We should always consider the PWDs and seniors when creating programs specially on disaster preparedness. That’s why we do this every year in different venues so we can reach and educate as many people as we can,” said Engr. Bien Mateo, SM Supermalls SVP for Mall Operations.

SM Cares invited different groups to listen to the forum. One of which is the Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) as they continue to banner their “always ready” mantra. “We always have to be prepared in everything that we do. Where SM is, Girl Scouts is there,” said GSP National President Dr. Cristina Lim-Yuson.

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte also thanked SM Cares for their “hearts and compassion for PWDs and senior citizens” through a video greeting during the forum.

Joan Cruz-Salcedo from Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) kick-started the event with topic about seismic hazards and its immediate effects. She also explained the different levels of intensity and the right time to evacuate in case of an earthquake. 

Weather Facilities Specialist Adelaida Duran from Philippine weather bureau PAG-ASA delivered the second session and discussed about flood disaster hazards, and flood mitigation measures that could be taken to lessen the impact of storms such as structural and non-structural methods.

The highlight of the session was the practical lessons given by Survival and Dis aster Management Expert Dr. Ted Esguerra. The audience were thought basic survival tactics designed for those who are physically limited or impaired. Esguerra also conducted earthquake simulation exercises that jolted the crowd with energy and enthusiasm.

The annual Emergency Preparedness Forum is just one of SM Cares' many initiatives in line with its programs for PWDs and senior citizens. The forum will also be held in other venues across the country, such as in SM Legazpi on July 27 and SM Seaside Cebu on August 3. SM Baguio already hosted its own emergency forum last July 13. 

This initiative supports the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, particularly "SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities."

SM Cares is the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Prime Holdings, responsible for programs that support communities and promote social inclusion and care for the environment. Its advocacies include Programs for the Environment, Persons with Disabilities, Women & Breastfeeding Mothers, Children & Youth, Senior Citizens, and the creation of bike-friendly SM Malls.

To learn more, visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.

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Smile Train Ambassadors and Miss Universe Queens Reunited to Continue Spreading Smiles in the Philippines

Smile Train Ambassadors and Miss Universe Queens Reunited to Continue Spreading Smiles in the Philippines

Thursday, May 19, 2022

Smile Train ambassadors and Miss Universe Queens, Pia Wurtzbach (2015), Iris Mittenaere (2016) and Demi-Leigh Tebow (2017) pose with Smile Train beneficiaries during their special meet and greet event before hosting the Miss Universe Philippines 2022 coronation night. 

Before hosting the grand coronation night of the Miss Universe Philippines 2022 pageant, Miss Universe queens Pia Wurtzbach, Iris Mittenaere, and Demi-Leigh Tebow met Smile Train beneficiaries under the care of its partner, Noordhoff Craniofacial Foundation of the Philippines, Inc. (NCFPI). The queens reunited for this special gathering to bring awareness about clefts, continuing their important work as advocates of Smile Train.

Smile Train, the world’s largest cleft-focused organization, welcomed them to the Philippines and organized the visit with the support of The Miss Universe Philippines organization. “Smile Train is grateful for the unwavering support given by the Miss Universe queens and the Miss Universe Organization. The impact they have globally and their genuine compassion towards our patients are vital to further our cause,” said Smile Train South East Asia Vice President, Kimmy Coseteng-Flaviano. “With their support, we hope to reach more patients and families so that we can continue to provide them with the care that they need.”

In the Philippines, Smile Train has continued to provide comprehensive cleft care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the beginning of the pandemic, March 2020, until April 2021, Smile Train has supported 5,490 cleft surgeries in the Philippines. In addition, Smile Train recently bagged recognitions from peers in the communications industry from the Public Relations Society of the Philippines (PRSP); Silver Anvil Award and in the Asia-Pacific (Gold) Stevie Awards 2022 with the launch of the country’s first Filipino mobile Smile Train Speech App and the Virtual Telehealth Program. 

To know more about Smile Train’s global efforts and to donate, please visit smiletrain.org. To learn more about Smile Train’s local programs in the Philippines and to refer a patient in need, please visit smiletrain.ph/get-help. Follow Smile Train Philippines on Instagram @SmileTrainPh, and like us on Facebook at @SmileTrainPhilippines.

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Plastic waste collection drive now in SM Telabastagan and SM Pampanga

Plastic waste collection drive now in SM Telabastagan and SM Pampanga

Saturday, May 14, 2022

SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, recently added SM Telabastagan and SM Pampanga to the growing list of SM malls that are part of its Plastic Waste Collection Program.

Customers from nearby communities may now drop off their clean and dry plastic waste at Parking D, near the SM Store Entrance in SM Telabastagan, or near the steel deck parking in SM Pampanga, every day from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Plastic materials such as PET bottles, grocery bags, e-commerce pouches, food containers, dishware, plastic utensils, and alike are accepted, except for PVC pipes.

Launched in 2021 in partnership with Plastic Credit Exchange (PCEx), SM Cares' Plastic Waste Collection Program promotes responsible and proper plastic waste disposal by making plastic waste collection points accessible for everyone. With this, SM continuously expands its plastic waste collection to more SM malls nationwide.

Since its launch, the program so far has collected 14,436.25 kgs of plastics, equivalent to 23,416.641 kgs of carbon dioxide (CO2). This in turn is equivalent to: 93,543.12 km driven by an average passenger vehicle; 2,848,462 smartphones charged; 8.1 tons of waste recycled; 1.2 garbage trucks of waste recycled; 1,1014 trash bags of waste recycled; 888 incandescent lamps switched to LEDs; or 387 tree seedlings grown for 10 years.

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Putting smiles on faces when we all need it most

Putting smiles on faces when we all need it most

Friday, May 6, 2022

The global pandemic has created a lot of disruptions, but the one thing it could not shut down is the power of volunteerism – people overcoming challenges to give their time and services to aid those impacted the most.

For Operation Smile Philippines (OSP), this means continuing to provide free reconstructive surgery, post-surgery speech therapy and related healthcare to children in resource-poor communities affected by a cleft lip or palate.

However, the pandemic has prevented the speech pathology volunteers from conducting the speech therapy in person. To get around the problem, they initiated an online speech therapy, or teletherapy, program in July 2021 so that they could continue their work to improve the children’s communication skills and self-confidence.

“This can have a transformative impact on the children as the goal is for them to be able to speak normally so that they can attend school and interact with other people without fear of being ridiculed,” said Professor Fernando Alejandro Ligot, an OSP volunteer of 20 years. “We work with various partners, including UPS Philippines, to bring that smile back to the children.”

The global logistics provider, via its charitable arm The UPS Foundation, awarded a grant to OSP for the purchase of internet-ready tablets and headsets to equip patients with the tools to undergo therapy online. With more children, many of them scattered across the country, gaining access to the sessions, it helps OSP’s online speech therapy service – known as Assessment and Clinical Care through Electronic Speech Services, or ACCESS – to expand.

ACCESS comprises eight virtual sessions – one session per week for two months – with each patient assigned to a volunteer speech therapist. Each session is conducted in the presence of the patient’s parent or guardian who is also given instructions on additional exercises the child can practice at home in between sessions.

UPS employees are also volunteering to support the patients and their parents during therapy as well as outside these sessions via teleconference calls. Each employee volunteer is assigned to a particular patient for the entire duration of the engagement.

“The partnership with UPS is a very significant and crucial collaboration because more kids are able to receive therapy, and therefore they have better opportunities to develop communication skills and become confident members of their communities and society,” said Professor Ligot.

That difference is felt by those on the receiving end.

“Maraming salamat sa Operation Smile kasi hindi sila nagsasawa na tumulong sa amin, mula surgery hanggang therapy. Hindi na mahiyain makipaglaro si Reeze. Mas naiintindihan na sya ng ibang bata. Nakatulong yon breathing exercises at lahat ng speech and reading exercises. Maraming salamat rin sa UPS sa pagbibigay ng gadget. Ang laking tulong sa therapy, pati na rin sa online classes ni Reeze [Thank you very much to Operation Smile for helping us from surgery to therapy. Reeze is no longer shy to play. Other children understand her better. Breathing exercises and all speech and reading exercises helped. Many thanks also to UPS for providing the tablet. This really helped in therapy, as well as with Reeze’s online classes],” said Joanalyn Pingki-an from Caloocan. Her 9-year-old daughter, Reeze Alaina is a Grade 3 student at the Arsenio Lacson Elementary School.

As part of their #UPSGivesBack global campaign, UPSers have committed to 30 million volunteer hours by 2030, with UPS Philippines participating in Operation Smile’s programs and other charities across the country as part of UPS’s Global Volunteer Month which takes place every year in April.

“Despite the pandemic, UPSers find ways to give back to the communities we serve by sharing our time and resources and connecting with people to build purposeful relationships and engagements,” said Tessa Santos, UPS Community Involvement Committee (CIC) executive sponsor and operations manager.

The UPS CIC is also organizing activities in partnership with SOS Children’s Villages Philippines, Project Pearls for the COVID-19 Hunger Relief Program and AIP Foundation for the Safety Delivered campaign which raises awareness of the importance of safe driving and child helmet use.

“Many of these partnerships have been in place for years. We’ve completed numerous projects together already and we’re looking forward to continuing new initiatives for many years to come,” added Tessa.

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More companies join Mastercard's Priceless Planet Coalition sustainability efforts

More companies join Mastercard's Priceless Planet Coalition sustainability efforts

Friday, April 22, 2022

Mastercard puts its global network to work by managing a rapidly growing Coalition of 100+ partners to tackle forest restoration, while its Carbon Calculator helps consumers to reduce their carbon footprint

Ahead of Earth Day on April 22, Mastercard’s Priceless Planet Coalition, which now includes more than 100 global banks, fintechs and merchants, is announcing the expansion of its reforestation work to include 15 new sites around the world. In Asia Pacific, new projects are being launched in the Philippines, Cambodia, China and India while planting continues in Australia. To reduce carbon emissions, the Coalition is working towards restoring 100 million trees globally by 2025, while Mastercard is also undertaking sustainability initiatives such as the rollout of its Carbon Calculator.

In the Philippines, 417,500 trees will be planted in Mt. Mantalingahan, Palawan; Peñablanca, Quirino; and in the island of Mindoro in an effort to protect its wildlife and local ecosystems, as well as provide economic benefits to local communities and boost tourism.

A 2022 report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) sounded the alarm about the urgency of taking immediate action to mitigate climate change. The UN report stated that removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, in tandem with reducing emissions, will play a central role in mitigating the effects of climate change; reforestation is widely acknowledged as one of the most impactful and cost-effective ways to do this. And while a UN Global Compact study found that 81 percent of CEOs are already developing sustainable products and services, research from Bain revealed that nearly half of these sustainability initiatives fail to achieve their stated aims. This is often due to the significant investments required to hire talent and build new capabilities, external factors, and long program durations measured in decades rather than years or months. Uniting in action with partners and experts can help address these challenges and lead to better outcomes. 

“Tackling environmental issues is a whole-of-society task, but efforts are often undertaken in isolation or without coordination,” said Sandeep Malhotra, Executive Vice President, Products & Innovation, Asia Pacific, Mastercard. “Given the urgency of the IPCC’s latest findings, now is the time to pull together to combat this challenge that affects every one of us on this planet. At the core of Mastercard’s business is a global network that spans banks, governments, merchants, and consumers. It is this connectivity that makes the Priceless Planet Coalition different and more effective. By pooling resources, it’s possible to rapidly scale forest restoration work and environmental initiatives, while providing businesses with pre-existing infrastructure that easily – and cost effectively – allows them to have a tangible impact.”

The Priceless Planet Coalition works by uniting companies, communities and consumers in collective, coordinated climate action. Guided by its restoration partners, Conservation International and World Resources Institute, the Coalition employs science-based best practices to identify new project sites, select the appropriate tree species and ensure long-term forest health through ongoing monitoring, while also providing economic opportunities for local communities. 

In addition to funding the restoration efforts, partners also work to engage consumers by encouraging people to take climate-friendly actions or make personal contributions through a donation platform. Organizations that have joined the Coalition in Asia Pacific include 1derful and Archa in Australia, as well as multiple banks in Taiwan such as The Shanghai Commercial & Savings Bank, DBS, Mega International Commercial Bank, Taiwan Cooperative Bank, Taiwan Shin Kong Commercial Bank, and KGI Bank.

Carbon Calculator: ESG fintech solution enables banks to support eco-friendly spending

To help consumers understand the environmental impact of their spending, the company developed the Mastercard Carbon Calculator in collaboration with Swedish fintech Doconomy. The easily implemented API enables banks and fintechs to embed carbon tracking within their own digital products so that their customers can view the estimated carbon footprint of all their purchases. A user’s carbon footprint is tracked month by month across a variety of spending categories so they can better understand where they are having the greatest impact and make small modifications that can result in real change. 

In March 2022, Taiwan’s O-Bank was the first bank in the Asia Pacific region to implement the Carbon Calculator. Soon after, Priceless Planet Coalition partner, Taiwan Shin Kong Commercial Bank, announced that it plans to offer the Carbon Calculator to its customers as well. 

Building a sustainable digital economy 

Mastercard is committed to building a more inclusive and sustainable world with a digital economy that works for everyone, everywhere. The company accelerated its net zero timeline to 2040 and recently expanded its compensation model for all employees, linking it to three priorities across Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG). Through its Global Sustainability Innovation Lab, Mastercard is developing products to enable more sustainable commerce, as well as services to help its customers bring more eco-conscious solutions to consumers around the world. 

To join or learn more about the Priceless Planet Coalition, visit PricelessPlanet.org.

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