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.
Uratex Philippines, a leading foam company, recently marked its 55th anniversary with a notable feat – breaking the Guinness World Record for the largest Human Mattress Domino. However, the celebration goes beyond setting records, as Uratex reaffirms its commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) by donating 2,355 mattresses to various charity foundations across the Philippines.
In an interview during the event, Mrs. Naty Cheng, CEO and president of Uratex, emphasized the company’s dedication to giving back to the community. “Noong 40th anniversary, nagbigay na kami to forty charities. Noong 50th year, nagbigay ulit kami. Maraming nabigyan namin, buo pa yung kutson nila kaya bibigyan namin yung mga iba naman” (During our 40th anniversary, we donated to forty charities. On our 50th year, we did it again. Since many already received mattresses, we decided to help others).
Charity Foundations and Beneficiaries
The recipients of Uratex’s mattress donations include orphanages, homes for the elderly, and various other organizations providing sanctuary for those in need. Notable beneficiaries include CORA Non-Profit Organization, Gawad Kalinga, Philippine Red Cross, and Bethany House Sto. Niño Orphanage. These charities were carefully chosen based on their alignment with Uratex’s vision and their urgent need for mattresses.
New mattresses arrive in Tahanan na Walang Hagdan.
The decision-making process was guided by the company’s founder, Mr. Robert Cheng’s vision: “We will not stop until we give every Filipino with a comfortable and affordable mattress to lie on.” Uratex collaborated with external partners to identify charities supporting shelters for the aged, women, children, and adults with special needs, as well as community hospitals in need of proper bedding.
The 2,355 mattresses found their way to diverse communities, including the Muslim community, orphanages, homes for the aged, hospitals with outdated mattresses, and troubled teens in need of a fresh start. Some recipients were living in poor housing conditions, relying on uncomfortable bedding or, in some cases, had never experienced the comfort of a mattress.
Uratex and National Childrens Hospital representatives poses in front of the mattresses.
Locations of the charities spanned across Cebu, Agusan del Norte, Cagayan de Oro City, Isla Verde in Batangas, Metro Manila, and nearby provinces.
Isla Verde, a secluded and simple community within Verde Island in Batangas, was one of the recipients. In an interview, recipients expressed their gratitude. One recipient stated, “Maraming salamat Uratex dahil natulungan nyo kaming mabigyan ng foam dahil sa sahig lamang kami natutulog. Ngayon ay komportable na kaming matulog dahil sa foam ng Uratex” (Thank you very much, Uratex, for helping us receive a foam. Before, we only slept on the floor. Now, we can sleep comfortably because of Uratex’s foam). Another recipient also conveyed appreciation, “Akoy nagpapasalamat at kami’y inyong nabigyang pansin… Maraming salamat sa Uratex. Kami ay makakahiga sa malambot” (I am thankful that you noticed us… Thank you, Uratex. We can now sleep on something soft).
The Mattresses: A Symbol of Quality and Generosity
Uratex donated 2,355 pieces of its best-selling Classic Uratex Single (36 x 75) mattresses, the same mattresses used in the Guinness World Record attempt for the Largest Human Mattress Domino. The record-setting attempt, which lasted 14 minutes and 25 seconds, not only showcased Uratex’s commitment to quality but also became the platform for a broader CSR initiative.
By combining the excitement of breaking a world record with a substantial charitable donation, Uratex is exemplifying how corporate success can be leveraged for the betterment of communities, aligning with its enduring vision of providing comfort to every Filipino. This unique initiative demonstrates that, for Uratex, giving back is not just an event; it’s a commitment woven into the fabric of its 55-year journey.
Watsons, the leading health, wellness, and beauty retailer, is dedicated to making a positive impact across four pillars: People, Community, Customers, and the Planet. Through these pillars, Watsons aims to uplift the health and well-being of the communities it serves, ensure a sustainable and healthy workforce, provide customers with sustainable options, manage supply-chain risk, and reduce its ecological footprint.
At the heart of Watsons’ business is its mission to inspire its customers to feel their best while looking good and doing good for themselves and those around them.
In 2022, Watsons made significant achievements in its mission to Do Good by inspiring both its employees and customers by making a meaningful impact on communities and the environment.
People:
The health, beauty, and wellness retailer ended 2022 with an impressive 1,048 stores and a dedicated workforce of 9,228 employees, with an outstanding 98% of them being trained in sustainability practices.
Transforming its employees into sustainability advocates, Watsons initiated the Live Green campaign, a waste segregation initiative in its stores nationwide, which involves the active participation of its people.
In pursuit of nurturing talent and fostering leadership development, Watsons aims to achieve the Gold Health & Wellbeing certification from Investors in People by 2025.
Watsons believes in the importance of nurturing talents and developing leaders who are essential in building a strong, sustainable and high-performing organization.
Community:
In line with its commitment to uplifting the health and well-being of underserved communities, Watsons conducted medical outreach programs throughout the year.
In collaboration with Operation Smile Philippines, Watsons played a vital role in changing the lives of 116 children through cleft surgeries in 2022, bringing the total number of surgery beneficiaries since their partnership began in 2013 to 2,152. Additionally, Watsons provided medicines to 910 people through medical missions in 2022, contributing to a cumulative total of 6,579 beneficiaries since 2013.
Through the Alagang Pangkalusugan program, Watsons offered free doctor’s consultations and various screening services such as bone scanning, ECG, glucose check, eye check, and so much more, furthering its commitment to the community’s well-being.
Moreover, Watsons played an instrumental role in making COVID-19 booster shots accessible to more than 25,000 people nationwide by partnering with the Department of Health and various LGUs. Over 80,000 customers also received flu, pneumonia, and HPV vaccines from Watsons in 2022.
By 2030, Watsons aspires to perform 3,300 cleft surgeries and benefit 20,000 individuals through the provision of free medicines.
Customers:
A key component of the Watsons Philippines ecosystem is its team of 1,702 trained pharmacists who played a pivotal role in guiding customers towards informed purchases. In 2022, customers were delighted to explore an extended selection of 1,632 Sustainable Choices products, reflecting Watsons’ dedication to providing more sustainable options.
To empower shoppers to make environmentally responsible choices, Watsons provided additional information and guidance on making eco-friendly purchases through the “ Do Good for the Community and the Planet Campaign.”
By 2025, Watsons aims to have 15% of sales derived from Sustainable Choices products and aims to collect 65,000 kg of trash by 2030.
Planet:
With a firm commitment to sustainability, Watsons made significant strides in adopting eco-friendly practices in 2022. A total of 1,691,000 plastic bottles were recycled within the Watsons ecosystem, while 25,454 kg of trash were collected, highlighting the retailer’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact.
Among its eco-conscious measures, Watsons minimized the use of plastics in its e-commerce parcels by 79% and switched to 100% recycled packaging. The introduction of two Refill Stations contributed to a notable 46% growth in refills. As of end-2022, four Watsons stores nationwide integrated solar panels to harness renewable energy.
Energy-efficient appliances, such as LED lights and inverter air conditioners, were employed in Watsons stores to reduce electricity consumption. Smart switches for automatic light control and air curtains were also utilized to preserve energy. Store personnel received comprehensive training in energy-conserving practices and are now monitored and incentivized to achieve reduction targets.
Watsons took an active role in environmental conservation by partnering with CORA Philippines for a coastal cleanup project in the Las Piñas Parañaque Critical Habit and Ecotourism Area (LPPCHEA). Moreover, the retailer collaborated with Plastic Bank to recover plastic bottles from the ecosystem, minimizing local plastic manufacturing.
Through the Trash for Cash program, customers were encouraged to participate in recycling efforts with designated drop-off bins at participating SM malls, allowing them to exchange recyclables for discounts or vouchers from partner brands redeemable at Watsons stores.
Danilo S. Chiong, Watsons Philippines Managing Director.
“Our heritage of Doing Good has brought about our passion to support the community and the planet. We are proud of many achievements – children whose lives we have transformed, families given access to health services and products, more sustainable products made available to our customers, drastic reduction of plastics in our packaging, and tons of plastics we have recycled. The task is too enormous. We have to continue on and accelerate our pace by building greener stores and investing more in renewable energy,” said Danilo Chiong, Watsons Philippines Managing Director.
Through its relentless pursuit of positive change and sustainable practices, Watsons continues to lead the way as a responsible and impactful retailer, promoting the well-being of people, communities, customers, and the environment.
SMAC (SM Advantage Card), the biggest loyalty program of retail giant SM, has donated P5.5 million to the Hapag Movement gathered over the holidays through vigorous support from its members. The donation to the Globe-led program aims to address involuntary hunger among Filipinos affected by the pandemic and economic challenges.
Under the month-long campaign over the Christmas season, proceeds from every SMAC card sold was donated to the movement and SM Foundation programs.
Additionally, part of SMAC members’ extra points are earned through purchasing select items from SM’s partner establishments– SM Store, SM Beauty, SM Appliance, Kultura, Surplus, Our Home, Baby Company, Crate and Barrel, Levi’s, The Body Shop, Forever21, Ecco, and Miniso – were donated to the Hapag Movement from December 15, 2022, until January 15, 2023, making holiday shopping even more meaningful and impactful. This is very empowering as each SMAC member can participate in doing a Globe of Good!
SMAC’s donation will support supplementary feeding and livelihood initiatives by the Hapag Movement’s implementing partners– the Ayala Foundation, Inc, Caritas Philippines, Tzu Chi Foundation, and World Vision.
“We are very grateful to SMAC and the SM Group for their generous support for the Hapag Movement. This donation will have a significant impact on the lives of those who are experiencing involuntary hunger, especially as the movement aims to expand its reach this year to help more of our vulnerable kababayans,” said Globe Group Chief Sustainability and Corporate Communications Officer Yoly Crisanto.
“This program is a true demonstration of the heart and generosity of SMAC members as well as the SM brands and its affiliates who came together and supported this campaign. All SMAC membership cards sold and all purchases made with SMAC converted a donation amount that far exceeded our expectations. SMAC became a channel through which members were able to bless our fellowmen who are experiencing involuntary hunger with the Hapag Movement,” said Jay Beltran, SMAC Head of Sales and Marketing.
“Without the help of our members, we would not have been able to raise as much as PHP5.5 million in just one month. We are immensely grateful to our customers for choosing to shop for a cause by using SMAC. Through your support, vulnerable families will get proper meals and livelihood training,” Beltran said.
Globe’s Hapag Movement leverages on technology and collaboration to help 100,000 families experiencing involuntary hunger through supplemental feeding and livelihood support.
An estimated 2.7 million Filipino families experienced involuntary hunger in the first quarter of 2023, according to the latest Social Weather Stations survey.
Those who would like to support the Hapag Movement may donate via GCash and credit cards or send their unused Globe Rewards points to the cause via the GlobeOne app.
Bumble, the app that started a movement by putting women in charge when dating, has been taking steps to improve the experience of its nonbinary users within the app, showing its commitment to creating an inclusive and kind environment where people of all genders can connect authentically. This Pride Month, Bumble has partnered with Metro Manila Pride to raise the importance of creating kinder and safer spaces for the LGBTQ+ community.
In recent years, online dating has become essential to the LGBTQ+ community’s pursuit of love, companionship, and support. Ahead of Metro Manila Pride March and Festival on June 24th, Bumble and Metro Manila Pride held their first joint Pride virtual event, #SEATED: Conversations around creating Kinder, Safer, and Stronger online spaces for the LGBTQ+ community together with a diverse panel of LGBTQ+ advocates from all walks of life. The event sparked discussions around what it means to date with kindness in mind, safety in online dating, and ways for allies to continue to foster connections built on mutual respect.
“Beyond celebration, Pride is a continuous movement for the community and allies alike to work toward a future that recognizes and respects the rights of LGBTQIA+ Filipinos. This includes both online and offline spaces, which is why as part of the community and as a long-time volunteer of the organization, Metro Manila Pride and I appreciate companies like Bumble, who genuinely reach out to us as allies to help in amplifying the voices of the LGBTQIA+ community so we can be better heard. ,” said Fats Santos Roxas, one of the leads of Metro Manila Pride, “We hope that through this virtual event, we can kickstart the process of making online spaces a safer and kinder environment for all Filipinos.”
An Inclusive and Welcoming Space
To help the Filipino LGBTQ+ community embrace their authentic selves, Bumble enhanced the member experience for matches with nonbinary people where either person can make the first move on Bumble Date. Women will continue to make the first move in matches with men and, in matches between people of the same gender, either person can make the first move. In 2022, Bumble also introduced an expanded selection of gender options to better provide a space that allows everyone across the gender spectrum to feel safe and seen. Allies, regardless of gender, may also declare their support for the community through Bumble’s LGBTQ+ Rights badge.
“We believe that kindness is the foundation of building authentic and meaningful connections, especially within the LGBTQ+ community. This Pride Month, Bumble aims to contribute to a more inclusive and positive landscape for LGBTQ+ people pursuing love and connection, and we are honored to partner with Metro Manila Pride to bring to life important conversations around Allyship, even if they may feel difficult, unfamiliar, or uncomfortable,” Bumble APAC Communications Director, Lucille McCart said. “By showcasing and promoting the power of kindness when it comes to online dating, we hope to create a ripple effect of compassion and kindness in communities extending far beyond our platform.”
LGBTQ+ Allyship at Bumble, for Pride Month, and Year-Round
Bumble Inc., the parent company of Bumble, Badoo, Fruitz, and Official, is committed to supporting the LGBTQ+ community during Pride month and beyond. As part of its corporate allyship efforts, Bumble Inc. has partnered with the Human Rights Campaign, the largest LGBTQ+ advocacy organization in the United States, to advance its mission of ending discrimination against LGBTQ+ people and promoting fairness and equality for all. Throughout the year, Bumble Inc. will also partner with region-specific organizations throughout the world that are dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ individuals in their communities.
Bumble has previously supported organizations that do important work for LGBTQ+ communities, including Trans Lifeline, Equality Texas, My Sistah’s House, and others. Bumble takes a strong stance against hate speech, transphobic language, and anti-LGBTQ rhetoric. In addition, last year Bumble introduced an identity-based hate policy, which prohibits content or behavior that promotes hatred and contempt against marginalized or underrepresented groups with protected attributes. Engaging in identity-based hate, including making a false report, may result in content being removed, an account receiving a warning or being banned from the app.
To learn more about Bumble Inc.’s allyship efforts and the organizations we will partner with throughout the year, please visit our editorial hub The Buzz for more details.
About Bumble app: Bumble, the women-first dating and social networking app, was founded by CEO Whitney Wolfe Herd in 2014. Bumble connects people across dating (Bumble Date), friendship (Bumble BFF), and professional networking (Bumble Bizz). No matter the type of relationship, women make the first move on Bumble. Bumble is built on the importance of equitable relationships and how crucial they are to a healthy, happy life. They’ve built their platform around kindness, respect, and equality – and their community plays an important part in that. Bumble holds its users accountable for their actions and does not allow any form of hate, aggression, or bullying. Bumble is free to download and widely available in the App Store and Google Play.
About Metro Manila Pride Organization: Metro Manila Pride (MMPride) is a volunteer-managed, non-partisan, and not-for-profit organization registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as Metro Manila LGBTQ+ Pride, Inc. Metro Manila Pride educates, equips, and empowers the LGBTQIA+ Filipino and their communities to work toward a future that recognizes and respects the rights of LGBTQIA+ persons to a dignified life without discrimination and prejudice.
*Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, and other gender minorities
Globe customers have raised P1,925,284 worth of Globe and TM Rewards points to help survivors of Typhoon Odette, sending critical aid to families reeling from the impact of the deadly December storm.
The donations have been turned over to Globe’s partner organizations — the Ayala Foundation, GMA Kapuso Foundation, and Rise Against Hunger Philippines.
Such support came at a crucial time when typhoon survivors needed life-saving aid, as Odette destroyed over 344,000 houses and damaged more than 1 million others. The destruction displaced over 58,000 families, leaving them straining for basic needs.
A total of 406 people were killed, while 1,265 were hurt and 65 remain missing.
“The devastation left by Typhoon Odette called for a swift response. We are very grateful to our customers who are with us in this undertaking. The Rewards points that they donated will go a long way in helping step up humanitarian efforts to help as many people as we possibly can,” said Yoly Crisanto, Globe Chief Sustainability Officer and SVP for Corporate Communications.
Globe Rewards currently has 15 non-government organizations, charitable institutions, and foundations in its program roster, supporting several advocacies in line with the company’s vision towards national development and upliftment of lives. These include disaster relief, reforestation, child protection, hunger mitigation, education, animal welfare, marine biodiversity, mental wellness, and medical support.
Through Globe Rewards, Globe and TM subscribers can provide support and malasakit to worthwhile causes in time of need within the safety of their homes.
For Odette response, one of Globe’s major partners Ayala Foundation through its disaster relief and recovery efforts under the #BrigadangAyala program continues to provide food packs in heavily affected areas in partnership with the Ayala Group of Companies.
Another partner is the GMA Foundation, which provides aid through the “Operation Bayanihan” program. The organization extends immediate relief and assistance to victims of disasters and calamities nationwide.
Other donation partners that extend support to disaster survivors are ABS-CBN Foundation and the Tzu Chi Foundation.
To date, relief efforts led by Globe and its partner organizations have now reached over 10,000 families in Palawan, Visayas, and Mindanao.
With thousands of Filipinos affected by the disaster still in need of urgent help, Globe continues to send out a call for support to its customers.
Globe and TM customers can still donate their Rewards points to ongoing relief operations for as low as P1 via the New GlobeOne app at glbe.co/NewGlobeONE. Customers can go to the Rewards section, click the “DONATE” icon, choose the organization and corresponding denomination, and then press “REDEEM.” A confirmation message will be sent by 4438 upon successful donation.
The company strongly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly UN SDG No. 9, highlighting the roles of infrastructure and innovation as crucial drivers of economic growth and development. Globe is committed to upholding the United Nations Global Compact principles and contributing to 10 UN SDGs.
