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SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. Launches Tela Tales in Iloilo and Bacolod

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.”

For more information, please visit https://smhotels.com.ph/

#SMHCC #TelaTales #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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Help alleviate hunger: GlobeOne App now accepts Rewards points donations for Project PEARLS

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.

To learn more about how to make a lasting difference in the lives of those most in need, visit Project PEARLS/Hapag Movement website.

#Globe #ProjectPEARLS #HapagMovement #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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‘Alagang Paningin, Alagang MR.DIY’ Optical Mission brings clarity to CarSiGMA Communities

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.

#MRDIY #opticalmission #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

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SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC): Together for a #SMWasteFreeFuture

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.

 #SMHCC #SMWasteFreeFuture #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Philippine Marketing Association Strengthens Its Thrust on Sustainability Marketing with PMA RAMP Fashion Show and Charity Auction Ball

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.

For more information visit:

Website:
https://philippinemarketing.org/

Facebook:

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/philippine-marketing-association/

 

#PMARAMP #PMAat70 #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

 

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Caritas Manila: Touching People’s Lives

“The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself.” – Proverbs 11:25

Proverbs 11 teaches that a person who gives to others will gain even more. Verse 25 makes another point: “Generosity will be rewarded. Give a cup of water, and you will receive a cup of water in return.”

This reminds me of Caritas Manila (CM) and its various services intended for the marginalized sector of Philippine society. CM is the leading social arm of the Archdiocese of Manila and the integrator of the Church social services and development in Metro Manila.

Its programs and services are directed toward the total human development of destitute people and the promotion of social justice in the light of the Catholic Church’s social teachings.

CM views development as empowering the poor, giving priority to those no one else serves. It is concerned with addressing the present situation of disadvantaged groups such as the urban poor, women, and children.

At the same time, CM is also involved with national, even global issues such as the environment. The measure of its performance lies in its contribution to the improvement of the quality of life of the poor people in society.

One observation is that Filipinos are more generous with their assistance to Caritas today than they were 10 years ago. “There’s really a remarkable improvement,” according to my source, a former executive director of CM, for this interview some years back. “Generally, Filipinos are kind.” At present, the executive director of CM is Fr. Anton C.T. Pascual.

The present executive director of Caritas Manila, Fr. Anton C.T. Pascual with Miss Universe-Philippines, Rabiya Mateo. Courtesy @OfficialCaritasManila

Caritas Manila, then known as Catholic Charities was founded by the late Archbishop of Manila, Rufino Cardinal Santos in October 1953. He saw it as a “social welfare program with the purpose of uplifting the spirit and soul of these unfortunate members of our community . . . to assist them in all their needs  . . . to bring the assistance and help of God in their miseries and distress.”

CM now focuses on socio-development activities that would wholistically draw out the poor’s capabilities and responsibilities. This stemmed from the belief that “self-reliance cannot be achieved through social services alone.”

Since then it has shifted to community building, to make the poor people self-reliant. They only dole-out in extreme emergencies, for example to those victimized by fires, floods, and other calamities. They always emphasize self-reliance, they help them find a job or train them to develop their skills.

Despite the passing of time, Caritas remains relevant. “I think we will still be here,” said my source. “But ideally we should fade away because it would mean then that the people are all economically, morally well-off. That’s our ultimate goal.”

Its accomplishment in helping people towards self-reliance has been an encouragement to continue CM’s commitment to helping build lives again. Above all, Caritas has uplifted our poor countrymen to their fullest dignity as God’s children.

Lenten Season Alay Kapwa 2021 campaign

This campaign challenges one to abstain from meals or habits in exchange for giving to the poor. From whatever you choose to give up Lenten season, you may save P40 a day. A total of Php 1,600 can be raised in 40 days, which you may donate to their feeding and nutrition campaign addressing hunger and malnutrition resulting from the pandemic and typhoons.

Caritas hopes that you accept this act of almsgiving by supporting the Alay Kapwa campaign and being the face of Christ’s love to those most in need in these trying times. You may share your blessings through their official bank accounts and online donation portals.

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/OfficialCaritasManila.

As the saying goes, “Service is working and giving and understanding that no good deed will be lost.”

 (Based on the article published in the Mirror Weekly magazine by the same author)

#caritasmanila #servingthepoor #alaykapwa #charityinaction #giftedtogive #holyweek2021  #rubyspreciousmoments #rubyasoyph

Photos courtesy @OfficialCaritasManila