F1 Hotel Manila BGC proudly continues its heartfelt partnership with the National Children’s Hospital and the Thalassemia Kids Club for 2025. This renewed collaboration is a shining example of the hotel’s steadfast dedication to creating initiatives that make a meaningful impact on children fighting life-threatening conditions.
At the heart of this partnership lies the F1 Cares Blood Donation Program, an annual initiative that embodies the spirit of compassion and community. For Thalassemia patients who rely on regular blood transfusions to survive, every drop of donated blood promises hope, healing, and a brighter tomorrow.
MOA signing ceremony marking the partnership between F1 Hotel Manila BGC and the National Children’s Hospital. From left to right: Dra. Alyssa Eusebio of the National Children’s Hospital, Ms. Cindy I. Brual, General Manager of F1 Hotel Manila BGC, and Dra. Maria Katrina Buenaflor-Barcelona of the National Children’s Hospital.
This year’s blood donation drive occurred on January 11, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at F1 Hotel Manila BGC. Volunteers, sponsors, and supporters united again in a powerful demonstration of humanity and care. Sponsors such as Klaypel and Cherifer generously contributed to this cause, reflecting the importance of collective effort in creating meaningful change. Adding a spark of joy to the event, exceptional guest artists from GMA, Kim Perez, and Shuvee Etrata were present to inspire and uplift attendees and donors alike.
GMA x Klaypel x F1
The enduring collaboration with the National Children’s Hospital and the Thalassemia Kids Club was a beacon of solidarity and compassion. Together, F1 Hotel Manila BGC and its partners aimed to provide blood donations and a message of hope and resilience to children and families facing overwhelming challenges.
Together, we can create ripples of change that extend far beyond the hotel’s walls. Even a single drop of blood can light up a life and spark endless possibilities for those in need.
On December 3, 2024, Project Inclusion Network (PIN) and leading financial services firm JPMorganChase celebrated the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPWD) by hosting the “Empowered Summit: Making a Difference with 1%” at the SMX Convention Center Aura. This event brought together government representatives, experts, and employers to advance policies on disability inclusion and promote the equal participation of Persons with Disabilities in the workforce.
Empowered Summit, co-hosted by Ms. Stephanie Zubiri – author of “Chalky the Chameleon,” a story about neurodiversity and self-discovery – began with insightful discussions on Republic Act No. 10524, which mandates 1% of government positions for persons with disabilities, and encourages the private sector to follow suit. Experts and leaders, namely Mr. Randy Calsena from the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), Ms. Carmen Zubiaga of the Women with Disabilities Leap to Women Social and Economic Program (WOW-LEAP), Atty. Judith Dongallo-Chicano of the Civil Service Commission (CSC), Ms. Linartes Viloria of the International Labour Organization (ILO), and Ms. Charmagne Adonis of SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) tackled barriers in policy implementation and the need for stronger initiatives on improving reasonable accommodations and enhancing accessibility.
Reactors from various organizations provided valuable insights on advancing inclusion in the workplace. Mr. Bronson Escalderon, from Benilde School of Deaf Education and Applied Studies (SDEAS), emphasized the need for guidance and upskilling within the Deaf community, while Ms. Carla Francesca Nobleza of Kasali Tayo highlighted the importance of normalizing the presence of persons with disabilities in the workforce. Real change starts with leaders who prioritize diversity and inclusion as central to their organizational mission,“ said Ramil Dela Cruz, Vice President for Recruitment and lead for disability hiring at JPMorganChase.
As a highlight of the event, success stories from self-advocates employed in inclusive organizations were featured. The media advocacy campaign “May 1% Ka Ba?”, in partnership with the Austrian Embassy, was officially launched. This showcased personal stories of persons with disabilities thriving in their supportive workplaces. These included Aileen Gay Sibal, a Deaf self-advocate; Lou Mallari, Rayne Saul Hugo and Michael Ladrillo, who are persons with orthopedic disabilities; and Benito Manangkil, a person with an intellectual disability, whose companies have set the standard for disability-inclusive employment. Both Teleperformance and Citihub have exceeded the 1% mandate, with Teleperformance reaching 5% and Citihub reaching 100%.
Meanwhile, representatives from the City Government of Mandaluyong, Ariel Nuestro and Christian Delos Santos, who are persons with physical disability, also shared how their local government ensures equal opportunities within public service, employing 3% of their workforce as persons with disabilities.
The event concluded with a thanksgiving dinner to recognize the partners and organizations committed to fostering a more inclusive society. As a member of the steering committee of the Philippine Business and Disability Network (PBDN), JPMorganChase is at the forefront of cultivating a supportive environment for persons with disabilities.
Project Inclusion Network (PIN) and JPMorgan Chase & Co. (JPMC) paves the way for disability-inclusion in the country through the advancement of policies. Together, they hold a year-end gathering in celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPWD) on December 3, 2024, at the SMX Convention Center Aura, entitled ‘Empowered Summit: Making a Difference with 1%.’
Empowered Summit supports this annual celebration through meaningful dialogues and a showcase of success stories. The afternoon panel discussion focuses on Republic Act No. 10524, the law mandating government agencies to reserve 1% of their workforce for persons with disabilities, while encouraging private corporations to follow suit. This session features disability-inclusion experts from various sectors, including Mr. Randy Calseña from the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), Ms. Carmen Zubiaga of the Women with Disabilities Leap to Women Social and Economic Program (WOWLEAP Inc.), Ms. Linartes Viloria of the International Labour Organization (ILO), and others, to explore how workplaces can achieve the 1% inclusion mandate.
Manish Shah, Managing Director of JPMorgan Chase, and the Disability-Inclusion Champions of JPMorgan Chase, lead the way on disability-inclusion initiatives together with Project Inclusion Network and the Philippine Business and Disability Network.
As a culmination of the event, a thanksgiving dinner is shared by PIN partners to celebrate a great year for the advocacy. Alongside this, PIN’s media campaign entitled “May 1% Ka Ba?”, sponsored by the Austrian Embassy, is officially launched. This campaign seeks to raise awareness about the 1% inclusion mandate by showcasing the stories of self-advocates currently working in different organizations that practice inclusive employment.
Stories from Aileen Gay Sibal, a Deaf self-advocate; Lou Mallari, Rayne Saul Hugo, and Michael Ladrillo, who are persons with orthopedic disabilities; and Benito Manangkil, a person with an intellectual disability, welcome us into their world, which allows diversity to thrive in supportive environments. They represent their employers, Teleperformance and Citihub, which have achieved around 5% and almost 100% of the inclusion mandate, respectively. Both companies are members of the Philippine Business and Disability Network (PBDN), a local platform for collaboration and support that encourages recruitment and retention within the private sector.
Multi-sectoral consultation and dialogues are priority for the Project Inclusion Network as it paves the way for collaboration and policy-driven advocacies together with JPMorgan Chase.
Lastly, we will learn about the lived experiences of Ariel Nuestro, who has cerebral palsy resulting in mobility challenges, and Christian Delos Santos, who has an orthopedic disability. As representatives of the City Government of Mandaluyong, they highlight the importance of government-led initiatives in empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring equal opportunities within public service.
Stephanie Zubiri hosted the event.
Empowered Summit is hosted by Ms. Stephanie Zubiri a storyteller who recently published the animated book “Chalky the Chameleon,” a tale for anyone who has ever felt out of place.
To know more about the event and our advocacy, contact Cece Hicaro, PIN’s Disability-Inclusive Workplaces Program Officer and part of the Technical Secretariat team of the PBDN, through cecilia.hicaro@projectinclusion.ph or 0923-469-8700.
Project Inclusion Network (PIN) is a non-profit organization dedicated to realizing the potential of Persons with Disability by empowering individuals and fostering disability inclusion across society. Through its access-to-work opportunities model, PIN prepares jobseekers with skills training and career readiness assessments while equipping employers with disability inclusion strategies, creating inclusive workplaces.
After the success of its Manila launch, SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) brings Tela Tales to the “City of Love” and “City of Smiles,” in partnership with Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo and Bacolod. Led by SMHCC’s Vice President for Quality and Sustainability, Ms. Leah Magallanes, this groundbreaking initiative aims to empower local communities and promote sustainable practices through the upcycling of discarded linens and fabrics from Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo and Bacolod, as well as other hotels and properties under SMHCC.
Tela Tales Visayas is a project designed to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities for local artisans. In Iloilo, the initiative collaborates with the Homeless People’s Federation of the Philippines – Iloilo (HPFPI), empowering local artisans to create unique products using upcycled linens. Tela Tales Iloilo’s pioneering products will showcase a design by renowned social entrepreneur and designer, Zarah Juan. In Bacolod, the initiative partners with Negrense Volunteers for Change (NVC), a non-profit organization dedicated to community development and environmental sustainability. Tela Tales Bacolod’s pioneering products are decorative Christmas ornaments with embellishments made from empty Nespresso pods collected by Nespresso Philippines.
The finished products will be showcased and available for purchase at Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo and Bacolod, providing a platform for the artisans to generate income. Proceeds from the sales will directly benefit the respective organizations’ charity programs, such as NVC’s Mingo Meals Nutrition Program in Bacolod.
Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod Director of Human Resources Mr. Reljun Oloroso with Negrense Volunteers for Change Foundation, Inc. Marketing Manager Ms. Ria Lacson Avinante and SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. Vice President for Quality and Sustainability Ms. Leah Magallanes during the awarding of the plaque of appreciation.
In conjunction with the launch, Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo and Bacolod hosted special lunches prepared by their culinary teams headed by Chef Rufino “Fines” Dungca of Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod and Chef Diego Trillana of Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo. These lunches were part of SMHCC’s “Plate for the Planet” program, inspired by the World Wildlife Fund’s “Sustainable Diner.” The special menus showcased the hotels’ commitment to sustainable dining practices, emphasizing local sourcing, reduced meat consumption, and minimal waste. The events also highlighted the company’s dedication to the circular economy through food waste repurposing and local farming initiatives.
SMHCC Executive Vice President Peggy Angeles said that “Tela Tales is SMHCC’s way of giving back as the company continues to grow, build, and operate more hotels in the coming years. It is a testament of SMHCC’s thrust as a socially responsible entity that looks after the welfare of the communities it operates in, because business growth and social development must go hand in hand.”
In celebration of Project PEARLS’ 14th anniversary, Globe and TM customers can now help combat hunger in the country and give disadvantaged children a better life by donating their Rewards points to the organization through the GlobeOne app.
Project PEARLS, a partner of Globe’s hunger alleviation program, The Hapag Movement, has been tirelessly working since 2010 to provide education, empowerment, nutrition, and healthcare to communities in need across Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Zamboanga Sibugay, and Zambales.
As it enters another year of service, Project PEARLS is expanding its fundraising efforts to reach more supporters and make an even greater impact.
“We are happy to partner with Globe in offering this convenient yet impactful way for its customers to contribute to our cause,” said Melissa Villa, Project PEARLS Founder and Executive Director. “Every donation, no matter how small, helps us provide nutritious meals, education, and healthcare to children and families in need.”
Globe and TM customers can donate as little as one Rewards point to Project PEARLS, making it easier than ever for individuals to support the organization’s vital work. This initiative aligns perfectly with the Hapag Movement’s goal of leveraging technology and partnerships to drive collective action for sustainable development.
“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Project PEARLS on its 14th anniversary of making a profound difference in communities across the Philippines,” said Yoly Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer at Globe. “To mark this milestone, we are excited to empower more people to join the fight against hunger by offering our customers the opportunity to donate their Rewards points to Project PEARLS via the GlobeOne app.”
In addition to the new GlobeOne app donation channel, Project PEARLS is commemorating its anniversary with other exciting initiatives.
Project PEARLS has launched a virtual charity auction, offering supporters the chance to bid on exclusive items such as a Taylor Swift-signed acoustic guitar, framed NBA jerseys autographed by basketball legends Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, and Steph Curry, a trip to Tuscany, and more. While primarily targeting US-based supporters, these prizes can be shipped worldwide, expanding the reach of Project PEARLS’ fundraising efforts.
The anniversary celebrations will culminate in a gala event at the end of the month, bringing together some of Project PEARLS’ biggest partners, including Globe and Canva. This event will highlight the organization’s achievements and reinforce its commitment to creating lasting change in communities across the Philippines.
Globe’s collaboration with Project PEARLS started earlier this year. The organization became an international partner of the Hapag Movement, enabling US-based individuals and corporations to contribute to the cause through the dedicated platform at https://givebutter.com/c/globe_projectpearls/. This alliance has opened up new avenues for global engagement, particularly among the 4 million Filipino-Americans in the United States.
The Hapag Movement, launched in 2022, has already made significant strides in addressing hunger in the Philippines. To date, it has provided food packs to over 95,000 Filipinos and produced 2,662 livelihood training graduates, with 2,361 of them successfully starting their own small businesses.
Despite these efforts, the need for continued support remains crucial. In June 2024, 17.6% of Filipino families reported experiencing involuntary hunger or had nothing to eat at least once, according to the latest Social Weather Stations survey. This is an increase from 14.2% in March 2024.
Hapag Movement and Project PEARLS call on the public to support its various fundraising activities as every contribution helps the organization move closer to its vision of a world where no child goes hungry.
SILANG, CAVITE – Gray skies did not deter residents of Silang and General Mariano Alvarez (GMA) Cavite from making their way to Bulihan National High School in Silang for the “Alagang Paningin, Alagang MR.DIY” Optical Mission.
The event buzzed with anticipation as 400 adults and 100 children from Silang availed of essential eye care services–a rare opportunity to have their eyes examined to achieve clearer vision.
Representatives from MR.DIY, volunteer optometrists, local government officials, and beneficiaries come together for the ‘Alagang Paningin, Alagang MR.DIY’ Optical Mission.
As part of MR.DIY’s overarching CSR program–Acts of Kindness (AOK) –this initiative highlights the company’s steadfast dedication to enabling and empowering communities by harnessing the power of goodwill to address healthcare needs, in partnership with the local government units of Carmona, Silang, and GMA (CarSiGMA).
In her message to the community, Carmona Mayor Dr. Dahlia Loyola emphasized the importance of eye health, sharing stories of how clear vision can transform lives by helping children excel in school and enabling adults to work more efficiently.
Mayor Dahlia Loyola of Carmona, Cavite, who is also a medical doctor, welcomes the beneficiaries of the Alagang Paningin, Alagang MR.DIY Optical Mission.
Meanwhile, Ms. Marla Papas, Integrated Marketing Communications Manager of MR.DIY articulated the goals of MR.DIY’s Acts of Kindness Campaign, highlights the necessity of caring for one’s eyesight, a vital aspect of health that is often overlooked.
Ms. Marla Papas, Integrated Marketing Communications Manager of MR.DIY, shares the importance of taking care of one’s eyesight and the objectives of MR.DIY’s Acts of Kindness Campaign.
Optometrists conduct comprehensive eye examinations to identify vision issues and ensure optimal eye health, carefully assessing patients depending on their eye care needs.
Selected patients received reading glasses, while more advanced cases received referrals for prescription eyewear and cataract surgery, courtesy of the local government.
What started as a gloomy Saturday morning turned bright and clear, as the Alagang Paningin, Alagang MR.DIY Optical Mission demonstrated the profound impact of collaborative efforts in addressing healthcare needs, ultimately making a meaningful impact in people’s lives for years to come.
SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) joins SM Prime Holdings, Inc. in the #SMWasteFreeFuture.
SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of the leading integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, brings all its property groups and stakeholders toward an #SMWasteFreeFuture on a unified waste management and segregation campaign in response to the growing global crises on waste.
The #SMWasteFreeFuture program promotes behavioral changes in waste management through effective waste segregation via Recyclable, Disposable, Compostable, or RDC. It aims to achieve two primary objectives: (1) Reduce Overall Waste Generation by implementing effective waste segregation practices, and 2) Enhance Waste Diversion Rate by diverting a greater proportion of waste away from landfills through recycling, composting, and other sustainable disposal methods.
ORCA Biodigester
Day 1 for a Waste-Free Future
The #SMWasteFreeFuture project was launched at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall, on June 5, 2024, World Environment Day.
Sustainability Champion and SM Engineering Design and Development Corporation President Hans “Chico” T. Sy, Jr. emphasized, “We have to be open to new ways of doing things and of putting into action every little step that’s crucial for advancing waste management solutions,” he said.
“This is a small step in a long journey. This is a learning process and it will not be perfect. We highly encourage all of you to give us feedback,” he said. Sy further emphasizes that, “This project is not specific to one organization, but one that belongs to an entire society. We welcome everyone to practice this in their everyday lives.”
Sy also encourages the youth and the general public. “Now it’s up to you and every individual here in attendance, to embrace the cause of change. We are given the opportunity to work on the biggest problems of our community when the planet truly needs it. Let’s not waste this opportunity,” he said.
Sustainable Hospitality: On Food and Linen Waste
In the hotel and tourism sector, SMHCC’s practical and sustainable solutions zeroed in on waste diversion focused on food waste management and condemned linens.
In 2019, SMHCC took decisive leadership to mitigate global food waste across all its properties in the Philippines. It opened its Back of House (BOH) operations to WWF-Philippines as the pilot study for the Sustainable Diner Project, covering the journey of food from source to plate, including kitchen operations, menu creation, guest engagement, composting, waste management, and working with local farmers.
“We have diverted 198 tonnes of food waste from landfills as of 2019 to 2023. More importantly, food waste prevention is where we take our first steps. We’ve made it our priority through mindful production and simple innovative solutions.” said Leah Magallanes, VP for Quality and Sustainability at SMHCC.
Launched during World Recycling Day, March 18, 2024, at SMX Convention Center Manila, Tela Tales, a textile upcycling project, gives life to condemned linens while seeking to provide livelihood to women from the local community.
The hotels industry changes its linens every two to three years. “We upcycle our condemned linens into beautiful products created by the communities we help,” said Magallanes. “But we also want to provide opportunities for skills building and encourage mothers from the single-income households to use their creativity and earn a little bit of extra while taking care of their families,” she said.
Giving Garden – Pico
In partnership with designer Zara Juan, the program invested on the training and skills development of 41 women members of the community of Barangay Bulihan in Batangas and Kalingap Casa de Sueno in Tagaytay, to help them increase the additional home income and encourage entrepreneurship.
To date, Tela Tales has upcycled 1,716 yards of condemned linens. The project addresses the amount of linen in hospitality and is the hotel’s commitment to #SMWasteFreeFuture.
TELUS International Philippines (TIP), a leading AI-fueled customer experience and business process solutions provider, showcased the transformative power of allyship to promote inclusion during its “Mothers are Mothering!” glam-up session and discussion. This event celebrated both International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) and Mother’s Day, aligning with the company’s year-round diversity, equality, and inclusivity (DE&I) efforts
Spectrum, TELUS International’s resource group for LGBTQIA+ and other team members and their allies was created to encourage bringing your true self to work every day. With chapters in the Philippines, Central America, and the U.S., Spectrum members participated in activities including a virtual drag competition featuring TELUS International Philippines team member drag queens, which raised funds for the LoveYourself Foundation; hosted sexual orientation, gender identity and expression sessions; gender sensitivity workshops; and celebrated World AIDS Day by hosting virtual HIV 101 sessions and offering on-site free HIV testing and counseling.
“My journey with allyship began with recognizing the importance of actively supporting and standing up for the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels valued and respected,” shared Warren Tait, TELUS International Global Vice President of Brand, Culture, and Facilities.
TELUS International Philippines invited Drag Race Philippines Season 2 finalist M1ss Jade So, along with her biological mother, Margie Alino, and her drag daughter, Rocky Star, to talk about the importance of allyship in all kinds of relationships. Warren touched on the influence of allyship in his leadership and the workplace culture with Bogs Orial, Executive Assistant to TELUS International’s Global Vice President for Facilities, Brand, and Culture, and APAC CFO.
The ‘Mothers are Mothering!’ event showcases electrifying performances from TIP’s dynamic drag queens, Debby Zorriah and Marcova Monroe.
Spectrum of leadership: inclusivity and empathy
“Cultivating allies can be beyond our friends and family. The key ingredient I’ve learned and experienced at TELUS International Philippines is the openness of the LGBTQIA+ team members to inform everyone, especially us in the leadership team ,” said Warren. “Through sustained and open collaboration and communication with our LGBTQIA+ community, led by our resource group Spectrum Philippines, we’ve been able to develop empathy, understanding, and allyship in the organization which goes beyond IDAHOBIT and Pride Month. It’s an ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion that we are deeply invested in.”
These insights are consistent with the results of the 2023 Pulsecheck Survey, an annual internal survey assessing team member engagement. It highlighted that programs around inclusivity are constantly being improved, creating a safer and healthier workplace to further team members’ careers and personal growth. Equal and abundant opportunities are made available to them with the full support of their leaders.
Anne Muñoz, the Country Vice-President of TELUS International Philippines, explore the significance of proactive allyship.
Fostering allyship
On a personal level, the allyship between drag queen M1ss Jade So and her biological mother, Margie, was strong and evident as they shared their stories of support. M1ss Jade opened up about her struggles growing up as a transwoman, highlighting her mom’s consistent support and encouragement. “My mother is the real queen here! She has been my ride-or-die since day one. And I thank my lucky stars for her ‘cause she loves me unconditionally and encourages me to be my true self, whether that’s fighting for me to go to prom in a gown or helping me prepare my stunning drag looks,” she expressed.
With IDAHOBIT closely celebrated with Mother’s Day, the event took on an even deeper significance for Jade’s mother. She recounted her experience supporting a transgender daughter in a society where misconceptions about transgender identity persist. Her story highlighted the importance of unconditional love and acceptance in creating an environment where individuals can embrace their true identities.
In addition to celebrating diversity and advocating for allyship, the event showcased TELUS International Philippines’ enduring commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive workplace environment for its team members.
The Philippine Marketing Association (PMA) reaffirmed its dedication to sustainable marketing by hosting the PMA RAMP Fashion Show and Charity Auction Ball at Sheraton Collab, Newport World Resorts Manila, marking its 70th anniversary milestone fundraiser event.
The event spotlighted eco-friendly fashion, echoing PMA’s year-long focus on “SustAInability Marketing.” This theme advocates for green marketing campaigns rooted in circular economy principles and integrated with artificial intelligence.
PMA President Kathy Mercado with Ucycle President Tati Fortuna.
In collaboration with sustainability advocate Ms. Tati Fortuna, President of Ucycle, the fashion show showcased designs by esteemed PMA members, including past presidents and community leaders. These designs emphasized the organization’s focus on maximizing resource utilization, reducing waste, and prolonging product lifespans.
The evening also featured a Charity Auction Ball, presenting donated luxury items, artworks, and collectibles. Notable highlights included exquisite gowns by renowned fashion designers such as Michael Cinco, featuring Pia Wurtzbach’s iconic dress, among others from Hollywood celebrities. Artworks by BenCab were also up for auction, all in support of the association’s initiatives aimed at bolstering PMA’s community outreach, educational programs, and industry events.
Percentage of the proceeds from the auction will benefit the Upskills+ Foundation, Inc., aiding communities in severe poverty through employment and income generation via community-managed microenterprises that promote circular and sustainability practices, as well as the Betis Symphonic Band 46, offering musical training and international competition opportunities to youth.
Betis Symphonic Band 46.
“As we celebrate 70 years of advancing marketing excellence, the PMA is proud to spearhead a move towards a more sustainable future,” stated PMA President Kathy Mercado. “This year’s PMA RAMP Fashion Show and Charity Auction Ball not only exemplify our commitment to responsible marketing but also strengthen our efforts to support the community and foster meaningful causes. With a focus on educating and inspiring our members and stakeholders to embrace sustainable practices, this event also serves as a celebration of sustainability, innovation, and camaraderie as we look forward to another decade of making a difference.”
Sitti Navarro
The PMA RAMP Fashion Show and Charity Auction Ball was supported by Aseana Holdings, Newport World Resorts, Sheraton Manila Hotel, Grandhope Travel, with event partners, Tati Fortuna of Ucycle, Emperador Distillers as bar host,Forex Cargo Guam for Sitti Navarro’s Performance, Betis Symphonic Band 46, Reyes Haircutters, hosted by RJ Ledesma. Creative and agency partners include, AQAdvertising, Shoppertainment Live, Globaltronics LEDs, Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment, Pool Party Creatives, United Neon, along with Uniquecorn Strategies as its official PR partner. This collaboration highlighted their commitment to sustainability and community support.
ABOUT PHILIPPINE MARKETING ASSOCIATION
Founded in 1954, the Philippine Marketing Association (PMA) is the premier marketing association in the Philippines, dedicated to promoting excellence and ethics among marketing professionals.
PMA stands as a strong pillar of support and source of direction for marketers in the Philippines and across the region, pushing for excellence and unparalleled service to the marketing and business community.
Engaged in various educational programs and networking events, PMA continues to be the cornerstone of innovation and leadership in the marketing field.
Leading digital solutions platform Globe and SMAC, the customer loyalty program of SM Retail Inc., have renewed their partnership to raise funds for the Hapag Movement, an initiative that aims to help Filipino families battling involuntary hunger.
Globe and SMAC are holding a second run of the fund-raising campaign, inspired by last year’s success that led to PHP5.5 million in funds raised for the movement, with the support of SM brands and retail affiliates, and millions of SMAC members.
From December 15, 2023, to January 31, 2024, each SMAC kit bought at SM Stores will turn into a meaningful contribution to the movement, with PHP50.00 from every sale going to the Hapag Movement and the SM Foundation. SMAC’s participating brands will also donate on behalf of members when they shop at their stores during the campaign period.
These brands have joined forces with SMAC to support the cause and make the program a much bigger success this year. Participating brands include:
● SM Fashion at the SM Store
● Levi’s
● Forever 21
● Ecco
● Simply Shoes
● The Body Shop
● SM Beauty
● Our Home
● Crate & Barrel
● Kultura
● SM Appliance Center
● Surplus
● Sports Central
Reflecting on the partnership’s journey, Yoly Crisanto, Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer at Globe said: “The Hapag Movement is about creating lasting change. Our partnership with SMAC shows how collaboration and shared values can create a powerful force for good. As we enter our second year, we remain dedicated to harnessing the power of technology and community to make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.”
Over the past year, Globe and SMAC have synergized their resources and networks to significantly impact people’s lives. In the first year of their partnership.
The support not only provided immediate relief to affected families but also fostered a sense of solidarity and purpose during the festive season. It also funded Supplementary feeding and livelihood initiatives carried out by Hapag Movement implementing partners Ayala Foundation Inc, Tzu Chi Foundation, and World Vision.
“We have been moved and inspired into action by the Hapag Movement as it fights a major issue in the country today. We believe and have seen the malasakit of our brands and members basing off the results from last year’s campaign, where we raised PHP5.5M through our member purchases. Not only did we help make Christmas get brighter last year, it also became much more meaningful. This is what inspired us to do another round of the Hapag Movement campaign this year,” said Jay Beltran, Head of Sales and Marketing, Digital Advantage Corporation (DAC), which operates SMAC.
With their partnership renewed, Globe and SMAC are committed to expanding the reach and deepening the impact of the Hapag Movement.
Nearly 1 in 10 Filipino families experienced involuntary hunger at least once in the past three months, according to the Q3 2023 Social Weather Stations Survey conducted from September 28 to October 1. To help address the problem, Globe and SMAC invite individuals and organizations to join this noble cause.
Aside from SMAC points, contributions to the Hapag Movement can also be made through various channels, including GCash, credit card donations, and Rewards points via the GlobeOne app.
