Samsung empowers Philippine School for the Deaf with Galaxy Campus Student Ambassadors

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This holiday season, Samsung Electronics Philippines Corporation (SEPCO) brought the spirit of sharing and collaboration to life as Galaxy Campus Batch 3 student ambassadors joined the ‘A Galaxy of Giving: Turning Tables of Communication’ activity at the Philippine School for the Deaf (PSD) in Pasay City. The initiative combined creativity, teamwork, and purpose, as students came together to contribute meaningful gifts that support learning and inclusivity.

Impact beyond the screen

Galaxy Campus Batch 3 student ambassadors teamed-up with PSD learners for a hands-on furniture-making workshop to design and assemble modular recycled furniture. The teams worked together on creating their designs on their Galaxy tablets and painted the assembled furniture. The completed pieces were given as a thoughtful gift to the school, one that inspires, uplifts, and creates a lasting sense of accomplishment. Together, ambassadors and learners celebrated this joyful season by creating, learning, and shaping a brighter future.

Galaxy Campus Batch 3 student ambassadors reflected on the activity. “This is a really fun way to nurture our creativity, as well as giving back to the community,” said Yowni Cueto from the University of the Philippines Los Baños, while Mishka Gotico of Miriam College harped on teamwork: “Even with differing communities, you're still able to shine amidst your differences. I like that we're really able to come together despite such differences.” Nikos Catanus of Iloilo Science and Technology University – Iloilo City Campus added, “The most rewarding part is we slowly understood each other. We bonded even though we're not used to communicating in each other's language. If you really have one goal, even if you don't fully understand each other, you transcend that border.”

Mr. Jordan Madronio, Assistant Principal and Officer-in-Charge of PSD shared, “I was very happy because they said they're [Galaxy Campus student ambassadors] learning sign language at the same time. These activities are very meaningful because they boost our students’ confidence, and our society is becoming more open to acceptance. They’re not just deaf—they’re empowered deaf people. What hearing people can do, they can also do.”

Jun Guevara, SEPCO Head of Corporate Marketing added, “Our Galaxy Campus student ambassadors are already influential digital communicators within their own spaces. Through this project of Samsung, we allow them to create impact beyond what they can do on screen. We reconnect with a hands-on activity to support an underserved community differently which makes this more meaningful.”

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About Galaxy Campus

Galaxy Campus is Samsung Philippines’ flagship student ambassador program for bold, driven college students ready to stand out and make an impact. Launched on August 16, 2025, the Batch 3 brings together top students from across the country for a year-long journey where participants gain access to exclusive Samsung events, hands-on workshops, mentorship opportunities, and early access to the latest Galaxy devices. The program equips students to lead initiatives, showcase creativity, and make a difference both on campus and in their communities.

Samsung Philippines President Mr. Roman Han emphasized the company’s commitment to youth education and empowerment: “Galaxy Campus has always been a very special program for Samsung. This program has always encouraged everyone to be their most creative and unique self. Globally, Samsung has always advocated for youth education and empowering students, and this activity is very aligned to that advocacy.”

For more stories and updates, visit Samsung’s official website at www.samsung.com/ph and newsroom at https://news.samsung.com/ph/ and follow Samsung Philippines on Facebook and  Instagram.

Pasasalamat 2025: Cebuana Lhuillier’s Holiday Gift of Memories, Hope, and Gratitude

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For years, Cebuana Lhuillier has stood beside millions of Filipinos during their most vulnerable moments, witnessing their sacrifices, safeguarding their stories, and protecting the items they entrusted in times of need. From this long-standing commitment to service and compassion came Pasasalamat. More than a corporate tradition, Pasasalamat is Cebuana Lhuillier’s Holiday Season act of giving. Aligned with St. Nick’s Day, a celebration known for generosity and heartfelt gifting, the initiative reunites clients with cherished possessions they turned over during difficult times.

This year’s Pasasalamat reached major cities across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, including Antipolo, Makati, Angeles City, Cavite, Cebu, Iloilo, Kidapawan City, and Pagadian City. More than 500 clients received their long-kept pawned items, each one carrying personal memories of sacrifice, resilience, and love. Across the country, the celebrations felt like a series of homecomings filled with emotional reunions and meaningful moments.

“Pasasalamat is our way of expressing gratitude to our clients and reaffirming the trust they have placed in us,” said Jean Henri Lhuillier, President and CEO of Cebuana Lhuillier. “Each item we return is not just a possession. It is a story of love, sacrifice, and resilience. By reuniting families with these treasures, we go beyond financial service. We honor their stories, deepen trust, and recognize the remarkable journeys of Filipinos across the nation.”

The impact of these reunions came to life through the stories of clients whose items had been carefully safeguarded for years. In Luzon, Jonalyn Garcia of Cabala Union received her husband’s wedding ring, pawned in 2022 after she resigned from teaching during her pregnancy. “Sobrangmasaya po nanaibaliksa amin ang singsing,” she shared. “Mahalaga po ang sing-sing naitodahildito po kami nag-exchange ng vows ng asawa ko.”

In the Visayas, Mary Yoli Quinol Eslita of Iloilo City was reunited with her bracelet, pawned to support her son’s veterinary medicine studies. “Importantetalagayung bracelet dahil anything that you have as your personal belonging is part of yourself,” she said. Upon receiving it, she added, “Heroes don’t always wear capes or have superpowers, but they are ordinary people like Cebuana personnel who help ordinary people rise above hardships.”

In Mindanao, Jehaimah Macmod of Cotabato City reclaimed earrings inherited from her grandmother. They had been pawned to support her mother’s plans to work abroad. “Sobrangmahalagananaibalikitosa amin,” she shared. “Anytime nakailangannamin ng cash, hindina kami maghahanap ng mautangan kasi pwede naming ibalikulitsaCebuana.” She added her gratitude for Cebuana’s support during difficult times: “Malakingtulong po talaga ang Cebuana kasi kapagoras ng ipitan, madalinglapitan.”

Pasasalamat 2025 stands as a testament to Cebuana Lhuillier’s mission to uplift lives, especially during the holidays when generosity and shared humanity are deeply felt. For many participants, the event was more than the return of belongings. It was a reminder that they are seen, valued, and supported.

As the Holiday Season unfolds nationwide, Pasasalamat continues to shine as Cebuana Lhuillier’s gift to the Filipino people, celebrating gratitude, resilience, and the enduring bonds that bring families together.

Canon Marketing Philippines Spreads Joy and Hope Through Kyosei-Driven CSR Day with Kanlungan sa Er-Ma

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Canon Marketing Philippines, in partnership with Kanlungan sa Er-Ma Ministry, Inc. (KSEM), a non-profit dedicated to protecting and empowering vulnerable children—held a meaningful Kyosei CSR Day in Malate, Manila.

KSEM’s mission to serve, protect and develop children aligns closely with Canon’s Kyosei philosophy, which champions working together for the common good and building brighter communities.

The initiative brought together 70 children from KSEM and 30 Canon employee volunteers for a day of nourishment, creativity, and shared joy. 

A highlight was the “Draw Your Big Smile” activity, where children expressed their happiest moments through art, guided and encouraged by Canon volunteers.

The artworks were displayed on the Wall of Big Smiles, while a photo booth captured each child proudly posing with their drawings. Every participant took home a printed photo keepsake, a lasting reminder of their Big Smile moment.

“At Canon, we believe progress means uplifting lives and creating lasting impact. Partnering with Kanlungan sa Er-Ma allows us to support children in need of special protection by not only providing nourishment, but also sparking joy and hope for brighter futures,” said Anuj Aggarwal, President & CEO of Canon Marketing Philippines.

The event forms part of Canon’s 2025 community initiatives, which include coastal cleanups, tree planting, and youth programs—reflecting Canon’s commitment to Kyosei and its mission of “Delighting You Always.”

STRAP Demands Accountability as Transgender Day of Remembrance Nears Pioneer Transwomen Coalition Condemns Media Misgendering and Sensationalism in Transfemicide Cases

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The nation’s leading pioneer trans rights organization, the Society of Trans Women of the Philippines (STRAP), alongside political organization Ladlad Partylist 2 and advocacy group Verde Creatives, announced a crucial roundtable discussion on November 17, 2 PM at Dark Roast Coffeehouse located in 107 Maginhawa Street, Teacher's Village, Quezon City, addressing the devastating role of media misgendering and sensationalism in reporting cases of transfemicide.

Titled "MEDIA, MISGENDERING, AND MEMORY: HOW STORIES OF TRANSFEMICIDE ARE TOLD," the event, strategically timed during Transgender Awareness Week (November 13–19), just prior to the global Transgender Day of Remembrance (November 20), calls for an immediate halt to journalistic practices that reinforce judicial impunity. The coalition asserts these practices are enabled by the Philippine government's decades-long failure to pass comprehensive legislative protections.

The Crisis of Post-Mortem Erasure

The roundtable is necessitated by a severe crisis of anti-trans violence, with advocates noting that at least 50 transgender or gender nonbinary individuals have been murdered across the archipelago since 2010, a number believed to be significantly higher. STRAP highlights that the media's consistent use of former names and incorrect pronouns — known as deadnaming and misgendering — in reporting these murders constitutes a final, systemic act of violence and historical erasure.

"Every time a transpinay is murdered, the refusal of certain media outlets to use her affirmed name and gender acts as a second, systemic execution," stated a representative from STRAP. "It is the final act of erasure, enabled by the lack of Legal Gender Recognition (LGR) in this country. Our roundtable is a demand to end this dehumanizing practice, ensuring that when we honor our sisters on TDOR, we recognize their truth and hold the systems that failed them accountable."

The Call for Legislative and Journalistic Overhaul

The systemic failure is traced directly to the legislative inertia in Congress. The Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression, and Sex Characteristics (SOGIESC) Equality Bill has been pending for over 20 years without passage. This decades-long delay conveys a message of institutional indifference that allows discrimination and violence to flourish.

The lack of LGR legislation is specifically identified as the root cause that allows official state misgendering in police and court documents, which the media then adopts, thereby institutionalizing the erasure of the victim's identity.

Ms. Bemz Benedito, Chair of Verde Creatives and a trailblazing transgender leader and former congressional nominee for Ladlad Partylist, emphasized the political cost of inaction.

“We should not be defined by our bodies nor should our sexual orientation and gender identity define our capabilities, skills and strengths. Yet, when media sensationalizes our deaths, they strip us of that dignity. The violence we face is a direct consequence of a state that refuses to pass the SOGIESC Bill. The death toll demands immediate implementation of protective laws and a complete overhaul of how trans lives and deaths are treated in the public sphere.”

By convening during this critical week, the coalition aims to reconnect the fight for modern trans rights with the nation's indigenous history, citing the pre-colonial reverence for gender diverse spiritual leaders like asogs and babaylans, whose acceptance was suppressed by colonial forces. The fight for ethical reporting is thus framed as a fight for cultural recognition and decolonial justice.

THE COALITION DEMANDS:

The Society of Trans Women of the Philippines (STRAP), Ladlad Partylist, and Verde Creatives issue the following non-negotiable demands to the Philippine Government and the Media Industry:

To the Government and Legislature:

1. Immediate passage of the SOGIESC Equality Bill to criminalize discrimination based on SOGIE.

2. Enactment of Legal Gender Recognition (LGR) legislation for trans and intersex people.

3. Inclusion of trans women in Anti-Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) laws and initiatives to ensure access to gender-based violence protections.

To the Media Industry:

1. Mandatory adoption of ethical reporting guidelines that require the use of the victim’s affirmed name and pronouns, prohibiting deadnaming [Image].

2. Cessation of sensationalism that focuses on graphic or irrelevant details of the victim’s personal life, instead directing coverage toward systemic failures and accountability.

Transgender rights are fundamental human rights. This truth is absolute. When we commemorate those among us whose lives were stolen by bigotry, our purpose transcends grief — it becomes invincible action. Through the ages. like all victims of systemic oppression elsewhere, we forge our collective rage into strategic decisions, into unstoppable mobilization.

To our allies: Our demands are yours; join us in this struggle and you always do, and fight shoulder-to-shoulder with us.

To those in power: Your choice is simple: acknowledge our truth, implement justice, listen and act now, or we will dismantle every obstacle you build each time you create them.

"We are not asking for a future where every transgender person can live freely and authentically. We are taking it. We will secure that victory. And we shall prevail."

Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. Launches First Textile Circulatory Hub

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In partnership with ANTHILL, Maybank Foundation, and the Quezon City Government, the new Circularity Hub in Payatas empowers women weavers and promotes sustainable textile innovation

Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc. (PSFI), in partnership with ANTHILL, Maybank Foundation, and the Quezon City LGU, officially launched the Manila Circularity Hub under the ReShell: Weaving Waste Project located at the Payatas Controlled Disposal Facility.

Lorelie Quiambao-Osial, President and CEO of Shell Pilipinas Corporation and Country Chair of Shell companies in the Philippines, and Hon. Joy Belmonte, Mayor of Quezon City, lead the launch of the first Textile Circularity Hub in Payatas, together with representatives from ANTHILL, Maybank Foundation, and Pilipinas Shell Foundation, Inc.

The Manila Circularity Hub is part of Re-Shell: Weaving Waste, a two-year initiative under Shell LiveWire that transforms textile waste into reusable materials such as uniforms and corporate giveaways, reducing landfill and ocean waste.

The hub features 10 looms, five of which are sponsored by Shell, and will train 10 women from Payatas to become community weavers equipped with sustainable livelihood skills. Additionally, 10 mothers from the non-profit organization Dear Me will receive sewing training to enhance their skills and increase their income opportunities.

The launch of the hub reflects Shell’s belief that sustainable change is built through collaboration. As part of Shell’s 111-year legacy in the Philippines, initiatives like this embody the company’s commitment to turning challenges into opportunities through innovation and partnerships. “When you have partners who share your values, work becomes easier, lighter, and much more meaningful,” said Lorelie Q. Osial, President and Chief Executive Officer of Shell Pilipinas Corporation.

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte also highlighted the launch of the country’s first Textile Circularity Hub as a major step in addressing the growing problem of textile waste. Under her leadership, she is championing circular economy fashion while empowering the women of her city by allowing them to build sustainable livelihoods and meaningful community impact.

Through this collaboration, Shell and its partners reaffirm that real change begins with collective action, proving that sustainability thrives when organizations come together to build a more sustainable future. On top of that, this initiative is part of PSFI's expansion to providing livelihood support and LEAD (Leadership, Empowerment, and Development) training, continuing its commitment to inclusive growth and community resilience.

“What may be a waste to some can be a source of hope, livelihood, and dignity to others,” Lorelie Q. Osial shared, emphasizing the impact of the initiative. “This kind of partnership is powerful because each of us brings something different to the table and somehow, all the pieces just found their way together, by grace and purpose.”

To get more updates and key events, follow Shell Pilipinas Corporation’s official website and social media channels (Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn).

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Unshaken by adversity: BingoPlus Foundation’s ₱6M earthquake relief efforts uplift Cebuano communities

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Cebu, Philippines – The memory of the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Northern Cebu on September 30 still haunts the region, but for BingoPlus Foundation, it was a call to action defined by dedication and grit.

BingoPlus Cebu employee volunteers distributed water, food, medicine and other essentials enough for 56,000 Filipinos across earthquake-affected communities in Bogo, San Remigio, Medellin, Daanbantayan, Borbon, and Tabogon. The ₱6-million relief effort, led by the BingoPlus Foundation, was carried out in coordination with local government units and mobilization partners.

Armed with a commitment to multiply the good and spread hope, the BingoPlus Foundation immediately mobilized the relief operations to deliver the Php6 million support from DigiPlus Interactive and BingoPlus to thousands of Cebuanos affected by the earthquake.

Little did the team know that their dedication and perseverance would be tested as the mission, implemented under the Foundation’s BayanihanPlus program, became one of its most arduous operations to date.

Serving Beyond the Quake

While BingoPlus Foundation, social development arm of DigiPlus Interactive Corp., is no stranger to difficult relief operations, the recent leg was the most challenging to date. For the Manila-based Foundation team and the local Cebu BingoPlus employee volunteers, the journey was a test of commitment.

The distribution was fraught with challenges, ranging from aftershocks, heavy rains, impassable roads, and infrastructural damage. This difficult environment peaked on October 13 when volunteers experienced a 5.8 magnitude aftershock, which intensified the already complex relief operations.

Despite the hazards, the team’s resolve was unwavering. Everyone was committed to fulfilling public service—to deliver not just the relief goods but multiply the good and provide hope to thousands of affected Cebuanos.

As Jem Tumbaga, BingoPlus Foundation Communications Officer, shared, “I learned that serving others is not about how easy the journey is, but how willing your heart is to keep going for those who need you the most.”

Tumbaga added, “Despite the bad weather, rough roads, and the scary aftershocks we experienced in Cebu, my commitment to serve others remains unshaken because I know our service will bring hope to our kababayans severely affected by the earthquake.”

BingoPlus Store Manager, Mark Gibson Dingal, surveyed the devastation in Medellin and Bogo, Cebu, after a 6.9 magnitude earthquake and its aftershocks destroyed numerous establishments on September 30, 2025.

Distribution activities proceeded from October 5 to 23 despite aftershocks, heavy rains, impassable roads, and infrastructural damage.

Collaboration to Multiply the Good

In the spirit of multiplying the good through collaboration, the Foundation coordinated with BingoPlus branches, local government units, the Philippine Army 53rd Engineering Brigade, the Philippine Accessible Disability Services (PADS) and supply chain networks, to carry out one of its most complex relief operations, delivering aid barangay to barangay across six municipalities within days. The combined effort in logistics and communications ensured efficient distribution of relief goods to thousands of residents in far-flung areas across Northern Cebu.

“Wala man lisod kaayo ang access diri samot na sa agianan samot na ang kaning sa Tagnucan kay mubalik pa sa mainland (Access here is very difficult, especially the roads, especially for Tagnucan, because the road goes back to the mainland),” said Nino Mangubat, the focal person of PADS in Borbon, shared on a Facebook post.

He added “Karon, kaning gihatag sa BingoPlus Foundation ayuda dako jud kaayo ni ug kwan sa persons with disabilities diri sa Borbon kay nakita jud nato ba bisan og lisod kaayo ang pwd karon amo saning gipaningkamutan sa mga chapter president nga ang tanang ayuda nga gihatag sa BingoPlus amo ning i-house to house na sa mga members. (Now, this aid given by the BingoPlus Foundation is really a huge help for the persons with disabilities here in Borbon, because we truly see that even though it is very difficult for PWDs right now, we—the chapter presidents—are making every effort to ensure that all the aid given by BingoPlus is delivered house-to-house to the members.)”

The PADS representative said “Thank you kaayo BingoPlus sa inyong hatag na suporta sa moa o sa PADS. Thank you kayo (Thank you very much, BingoPlus, for the support you gave us, or to PADS. Thank you very much)."

“Ang mga ayudang ito ay aming ipinamamahagi house-to-house sa aming mga miyembro dahil mahirap ang access ng daanan dito... kaya umaabot ng 17 kilometro ang biyahe,” shared PADS Focal Person Nino Mangubat to Jem Tumbaga of BingoPlus Foundation, describing the challenges of delivering relief to PWDs. The collaboration helped bridge access to essential goods directly to remote homes, sparing vulnerable sectors the long and difficult travel to distribution sites.

Php6 million Aid of BayanihanPlus

Through the Foundation’s program BayanihanPlus, volunteers successfully delivered thousands of relief packs to an estimated 56,000 residents across six municipalities in Northern Cebu. This extensive distribution, valued at Php6 million, spanned a phased approach from October 5 to October 23.

"Our commitment to the people of Cebu is unwavering," said Angela Camins-Wieneke, BingoPlus Foundation Executive Director. "This Php6 million support from DigiPlus and BingoPlus represents an immediate lifeline for tens of thousands of individuals who lost their homes, livelihoods, and some even their loved ones. We've prioritized swift, targeted action to ensure the relief gets into the hands of those who need it most. Sama-sama sa pagtulong. Sabay-sabay sa pagbangon. (We help together. We recover together.)"

Understanding that earthquake recovery is a long-term process, the BingoPlus Foundation will continue working with partners to assess the changing needs of the affected communities as the complex recovery progresses.

Sama-sama sa tulong. Sabay-sabay sa pagbangon – through its BayanihanPlus program, BingoPlus Foundation’s Php6 million support from DigiPlus and BingoPlus represents an immediate lifeline and a step towards recovery for thousands of individuals who lost their homes, livelihoods and loved ones.

For the latest updates on the BingoPlus Foundation, as well as inquiries regarding coordination, assistance, or partnership opportunities, please contact the Foundation via its official Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/BingoPlusFoundation/.

Globe GoGIVE: Enabling young Pinoys to live their digital life with purpose

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Daily social media scrolling, mobile gaming marathons, and endless video calls can now support social and environmental causes to create change that matters.

Globe Prepaid has made this a reality with GoGIVE, an innovative way for young Filipinos to make consistent and lasting impact by using their phones the way they already do. Subscribers automatically earn hearts while using their mobile data for any online activity. The hearts are used to support a diverse range of advocacies.

"We understand that today's youth want to make a difference, but they need solutions that work with their lifestyle, not against it. GoGIVE easily integrates into everyday life, allowing them to be changemakers through the technology they love,” said Givielle Florida, Head of Globe Prepaid.

Since its launch in March 2025, GoGIVE has already generated an impressive 2.7 billion “hearts” from more than 37,000 contributors, and the numbers continue to climb as more people participate in this digital movement of giving.

Globe Prepaid is currently partnered with these advocacies:

● Expanding Digital Literacy for Underserved Women (Project PEARLS)

● Strengthening Support for Children In-need (World Vision Philippines)

● Sustaining the Fight for Forest Conservation (Philippine Eagle Foundation)

● Elevating Training and Research for Frontliners (PGH Medical Foundation, Inc.)

● Continuing Compassion for More Animals (The Philippine Animal Welfare Society)

With the successful completion of PAWS initial goals, GoGIVE is now focusing on amplifying support for our other crucial advocacies such as Project PEARLS, World Vision Philippines, Philippine Eagle Foundation, and PGH Medical Foundation, Inc.

To join, Globe Prepaid customers can simply download the GlobeOne app, click the GoGIVE icon, and select their preferred advocacy.

GoGIVE represents Globe’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. It encourages everyone to ‘Go Forward Together,’ reminding them that even small actions online can result in a positive impact offline.

For more information about GoGIVE and how to live one’s digital life with purpose, download the GlobeOne app or visit https://www.globe.com.ph/.

PBB Big Winner Mika Salamanca Joins Book Nook’s Literacy Mission

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Book Nook, SM Cares’ flagship program that promotes literacy and community engagement, recently hosted another heartwarming storytelling and book donation event at SM North EDSA, The Annex Level 4 Atrium. The session featured Mika Salamanca, Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition Big Winner, whose presence quickly drew excitement among children and families.

A community of readers: Mika Salamanca joins the children in a joyful group photo during Book Nook’s storytelling and book donation event at SM North EDSA.

With Mika’s passion for books backing the most recent leg of the initiative, Book Nook continues to inspire a similar kind of love for reading, giving children a welcoming space to explore literature, spark their imagination, and nurture creativity. Each child participant received a personal copy of Mika’s book, while an additional copy was donated to Book Nook to ensure more children can read and enjoy her story during future visits.

“Winning Pinoy Big Brother made me feel that I could take on many new paths, but I chose to start with books because I truly believe in the power of storytelling. Stories can inspire, shape young minds, and spark dreams—and if I can play even a small role in that journey for children, then I know I’m making the right choice,” said Mika Salamanca.

During the session, children eagerly listened to stories brought to life and joined in activities that made reading fun and interactive. Beyond the entertainment, the book donation initiative ensured that more young learners would have access to books, helping develop reading as a habit that extends beyond the walls of the mall.

Every child a storyteller: Participants proudly raise their new books, gifted through Book Nook and Mika Salamanca, sparking a love for reading that will last a lifetime.

PBB Big Winner Mika Salamanca brings stories to life at Book Nook, inspiring young readers to imagine, dream, and explore the joy of books.

Parents and participants shared how Book Nook has become a place where children not only read but also discover new ways of learning and bonding.

“As both a parent and an educator, I’m grateful for programs like Book Nook because they create a safe, nurturing space where kids can explore the wonder of reading. Seeing our children light up with excitement as they read books and listen to stories today was a beautiful reminder of how reading can inspire dreams and shape their future," shared Dr. Leah Joyce C. Quilang, Kasarinlan High School teacher and WEngaged PH Youth Org founder.

Book Nook’s ongoing mission is to serve as a community hub—one where children of all ages can discover the joy of books and where reading becomes a bridge to imagination, growth, and lifelong learning.

“Mika’s energy and love for sharing stories made this event memorable for the children, and you can really see that what makes Book Nook special is how it continues to bring families together around books,” said Shereen Sy, Pioneer of Book Nook for SM Supermalls.

A heartfelt moment: Mika Salamanca shares a warm hug with one of the kids at Book Nook, showing how reading and storytelling create genuine connections.

PBB Big Winner Mika Salamanca with Shereen Sy, Pioneer of Book Nook for SM Supermalls, celebrating their shared mission of bringing families together and inspiring children to discover the joy of reading.

This initiative is part of SM Cares’ broader efforts to create spaces that support literacy, education, and community development, alongside other programs that advocate for children and youth. With Book Nook, SM Cares cements its belief that every child deserves the chance to explore worlds and ideas through reading.

Interested organizations or schools are very welcome to partner with Book Nook. For more information on upcoming Book Nook activities or to explore partnership opportunities, visit your nearest Book Nook corner at SM malls or email smcares@smsupermalls.com.

Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With Every You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers with 88 malls in the Philippines—marks four decades of growing with Filipinos and becoming a trusted space where diverse lifestyles and generations connect, while continuously evolving to redefine the malling experience through sustainability, innovation, and a deep commitment to shaping the future of retail and urban life with inclusive and meaningful experiences.

FSSI supports Filipina social entrepreneurs in redefining rural development

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As rural poverty continues to challenge agricultural communities in the Philippines, the Foundation for a Sustainable Society, Inc. (FSSI), a social investment nonprofit organization, is supporting women-led social enterprises that are driving inclusive and sustainable development. By providing financial services and capacity building opportunities, FSSI empowers Filipina entrepreneurs to transform rural economies through innovative, community-based business models that balance profit with social and environmental impact.

Maria Victoria Anahaw, Chief Executive Officer of Caviteño Isabelino Multi-Purpose Cooperative (CAISA-MPC), proudly received the award during the FSSI 30th Anniversary Dinner—recognized for their commitment to community enterprise and sustainable development. Photo from Foundation for a Sustainable Society, Inc. (FSSI).

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● Rural poverty in the Philippines affects 25.7% of the population, including many farmers and fisherfolk.

● Women-led social enterprises such as Caviteño Isabelino Multipurpose Cooperative and Lourdes Multipurpose Cooperative are creating sustainable livelihoods and driving values-based innovations in agriculture and cooperatives.

● Guided by the triple bottom line (3BL) framework of people, planet, and profit, the Foundation for a Sustainable Society, Inc. (FSSI), a social investment nonprofit, supports women-led enterprises in expanding services, scaling operations, and improving communities.

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During its 30th anniversary celebration last September 5, 2025, in Quezon City, FSSI presented the inaugural Triple Bottomline (3BL) Awards to honor social enterprises—many led by women—that drive inclusive growth, climate resilience, and community-based innovation. The awards underscore the need to support local leadership in rural areas, where poverty remains high at 25.7%, and many farmers and fisherfolk still live below the poverty line, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority.

For some of the women leaders from rural multipurpose cooperatives, this persistent poverty is potentially driven by low farmgate prices, high production costs, recurring natural disasters, and limited access to markets and institutional support—even in years of productive harvests.

To confront these systemic issues, women-led social enterprises are filling critical gaps—creating sustainable livelihoods and introducing values-driven innovations in agri-processing, retail, and cooperative development. With support from FSSI, guided by the3BLstrategy that measures success by profit, social impact, and environmental responsibility, these enterprises receive tailored financing, technical assistance, and capacity-building to grow and scale their operations.

The staff of CAISA-MPC gathered to mark Cooperative Month 2024, celebrating their collective commitment to cooperative values, mutual support, and community empowerment. Photo from Caviteño Isabelino Multipurpose Cooperative (CAISA-MPC).

In Echague, Isabela, Caviteño Isabelino Multipurpose Cooperative (CAISA-MPC) tackles issues like pest infestations, climate change, limited market access, poor infrastructure, and lack of capital by expanding its services. With FSSI’s support through training, seminars, and capital loan, the organization was able to strengthen its operations and pursue its vision of focusing on people, planet, and profit. This has helped them grow and sustain initiatives such as pineapple production and processing, a rice mill, agri-machinery rentals, and a processing center, enabling them to better serve their members.

Maria Victoria Anahaw of CAISA-MPC joined other women SE leaders at the recent Governance and Leadership Training co-facilitated by Investing In Women and FSSI. Photo from Foundation for a Sustainable Society, Inc. (FSSI).

“Through FSSI’s support, we’ve trained our members, provided them easy access to financing, and built a cooperative that uplifts the entire community, and not just farmers,” shared Maria Victoria Anahaw, Chief Executive Officer of CAISA-MPC. “From a credit co-op, we’ve grown into a multipurpose cooperative with 800 members, providing meaningful services beyond lending that truly benefit our members and help improve their quality of life.”

At Lourdes MPC Agri-Supply, farmers can access essential inputs that support both crop production and sustainable livelihoods. They can also redeem vouchers for fertilizers, making farming more accessible and affordable. Photo from Lourdes Multipurpose Cooperative.

Similarly, Lourdes MPC in Occidental Mindoro addresses challenges like low farmgate prices and high input costs through an FSSI-funded agri-supply store that provides affordable, quality products, along with agri-loans and small business loans to support farmer-members in diversifying their income and growing their livelihoods. “We prioritize products that truly help our members by ensuring quality and safety while listening to their specific needs,” said Jesrryl Maye Obispo Agnas, Officer-in-Charge Branch Manager of Lourdes MPC. “It’s more than a store, it also empowers farmers to take better control of their production.”

In line with FSSI’s commitment to the 3BL, both cooperatives demonstrate how economic growth can go hand-in-hand with environmental responsibility and community well-being. CAISA-MPC, for instance, has adopted sustainable farming practices such as tree and bamboo planting along waterways and eliminating open burning. Lourdes MPC promotes climate-responsive planning and continues to assist members affected by natural calamities through both agricultural support and personal outreach.

Lourdes MPC staff held outreach sessions to initiate conversations with cooperative members to strengthen collaboration and advance sustainable livelihood goals. Photo from Lourdes Multipurpose Cooperative.

Beyond growing sustainable businesses, these cooperatives are redefining gender roles in agriculture. In a sector long dominated by men, women like Anahaw and Agnas are leading with strength, empathy, and emotional intelligence. Supported by training, experience, and the trust of their communities, they are showing that women are fully capable of leading thriving, impactful enterprises.

“Filipina social entrepreneurs are proving that lasting rural transformation requires empowered leadership that cultivates communities towards sustainable growth,” said Sixto Donato C. Macasaet, Executive Director of FSSI. “To amplify their impact, we commit to invest in what truly sustains them—accessible capital, upgraded technologies, and continuous capacity-building that equips them to lead, innovate, and thrive.”

As rural communities face poverty and systemic barriers, these women-led, FSSI-supported enterprises provide a strong model for inclusive, sustainable development grounded in local leadership and lasting solutions.

To learn more about how FSSI empowers social enterprises and uplifts rural livelihoods, visit fssi.com.ph or follow their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/FSSI.Philippines.

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About FSSI

Foundation for a Sustainable Society, Inc., a social investment organization advancing sustainable development through impact-driven social enterprises. Since 1995, it has supported inclusive enterprises nationwide, anchored on the triple bottom line (3BL) of People, Planet, and Profit. From women-led cooperatives to climate-conscious agri-enterprises, FSSI provides tailored financial and capacity building support to help local changemakers build lasting impact.

G ka na ba tumulong? Sa GBayanihan, you can donate LIVE to help lives!

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GCash, the Philippines' leading finance superapp and largest cashless ecosystem, is introducing a new way for Filipinos to support worthy causes through a first-of-its-kind livestream quiz show under its GBayanihan program. The initiative offers a fun and interactive experience that makes giving more engaging while continuing to channel support to non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

Many NGOs in the country continue to face difficulties in generating consistent financial support, limiting their ability to sustain their causes. At the same time, Filipinos are often met with multiple calls for donations across different channels, making it difficult to know which platforms are legitimate and which NGOs are credible.

To help address this problem, GCash created GBayanihan, a trusted in-app donation feature that connects users with reputable organizations. GBayanihan is a curated list of NGOs that adhere to the highest standards of audit and governance. All featured NGOs have both a Philippine Council for NGO Certification (PCNC) accreditation, considered the gold standard certification in the NGO sector, and a solicitation permit from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). These credentials confirm that featured organizations are authorized to raise funds and are properly audited.

GBayanihan serves as a bridge between millions of Filipinos and these trusted NGOs, ensuring every donation goes only to legitimate organizations.

The telethon-inspired donation drive titled “Game to Give” combines entertainment, gamification, and philanthropy in one unique experience. It will feature 4 content creators competing in real-time trivia quizzes, each playing on behalf of their chosen causes. The winning influencer can secure up to ₱1 million in donations for their chosen organization. Among the causes to be represented are Ashley Rivera for Community Development, Hershey Neri for Education, Lottie Bie for Health, and Show Suzuki for Shelter. Featured NGOs are among the likes of UNICEF, ABS-CBN Foundation, InLife Foundation, and Virlanie.

What sets the event apart is its audience participation: every donation, even as small as 1 peso, by viewers translates into points for their chosen player’s team, directly linking support for NGOs with the excitement of competition. The show culminates with GCash awarding the winning creator with up to ₱1 million to be given to the NGOs under their cause, amplifying the impact of the fundraising drive and ensuring greater support for the beneficiary organizations.

“Through GBayanihan and Game to Give, we want to show how technology can open new opportunities for NGOs to reach supporters and raise funds in more innovative ways,” said CJ Alegre, AVP for sustainability at GCash. “By leveraging the GCash network, we make it easier for Filipinos to engage with causes they care about, while creating a bigger collective impact for communities across the country.”

Game to Give is the pioneering GBayanihan project that connects livestream entertainment with charitable giving. By integrating the act of donating into digital platforms where people already spend their time, the initiative demonstrates that philanthropy can be simple, fun, and impactful.

With Game to Give, GCash reinforces its role as a bridge between technology and social good, showing how its network can help transform everyday digital interactions into meaningful support for NGOs.

Watch Game to Give this Friday, September 19, 2025, live on the official GCash TikTok account with simultaneous streaming on Facebook, and donate via GBayanihan to help your chosen influencer and partner NGO win up to ₱1 million for their cause.

For more information, please visit www.gcash.com.