SM MOBILIZE RELIEF EFFORTS IN TYPHOON-AFFECTED COMMUNITIES

In the wake of Typhoon ‘Kristine,’ SM Supermalls and SM Foundation Inc., through its Operation Tulong Express (OPTE) program, mobilized simultaneous relief operations across the affected communities of Caloocan, Malabon, and Valenzuela.

In Caloocan and Malabon, volunteers from SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM Savemore Malabon distributed truckloads of “kalinga packs” containing rice, canned goods, noodles, and bottled water. Aid focused on the hardest-hit barangays, including Brgy. 35 Maypajo and Brgy. 2 Sangandaan in Caloocan and Brgy.Tinajeros in Malabon City. With support from the local rescue team, 850 families received direct assistance, providing critical relief in areas with significant displacement. 

Meanwhile, SM City Valenzuela went beyond standard relief measures, employing a door-to-door relief pack distribution in Brgy.Viente Reales in Valenzuela City. Volunteers visited homes individually, ensuring that those unable to reach relief centers were provided with necessities. This personalized distribution approach benefited 200 families. 

The kalinga pack distribution effort is a part of Operation Tulong Express (OPTE), a social program of the SM Foundation in collaboration with SM Supermalls and SM Markets. It aims to address the needs of communities during calamities and crises. Its implementation includes close coordination with SM Supermalls employees and volunteers. 

Coca-Cola Philippines and Bacolod City Promote Bottle Collection and Segregation at Masskara Festival

NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, 30 October 2024 - Coca-Cola Philippines, in partnership with the Bacolod City Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO), promoted PET plastic bottle segregation and collection at the 45th Masskara Festival, held from October 11-27, 2024, in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental. Together with Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies, Inc. and festival organizer Yuhum Foundation, the beverage company engaged festival-goers in responsible waste management practices by facilitating the segregation and collection of used PET bottles.

To raise awareness about bottle collection and segregation, Coca-Cola Philippines encouraged festival attendees to drop off their empty PET bottles at the Coca-Cola bottle counter and The Tindahan Extra Mile (TEM) exchange booths located at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC). Attendees also exchanged empty bottles to participate in various games and activities.

One of the highlights was the MassKara mask-making contest, where festival-goers cast their votes for the Best Recycled Mask on display using bottle caps. Artisticrew was named the grand winner, while Bacolod City College and the Negrese Artist Circle received consolation prizes for their participation.

Additionally, attendees took part in the "Dunk, Not Junk" shooting hoops game. As they showcased their shooting skills, players had the chance to win a variety of Coca-Cola merchandise and other exciting prizes.

Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines Inc. 's (CCBPI) flagship nationwide collection program, “Tapon to Ipon: Basta Klaro, Panalo!” featured a pop-up collection booth. In its second year at the MassKara Festival, Tapon to Ipon encouraged attendees to drop off used clear PET plastic bottles of any brand, allowing them to win prizes.  

Ruby Biro, Senior Franchise Operations Manager of Coca-Cola Philippines, congratulated all the partners and local barangays that contributed to the success of the waste management initiative during the festival's closing program. She emphasized the importance of community engagement and the role of festival-goers in celebrating while making a positive impact on the environment.