corporate social responsibility – Jellybeans in the City

Lingap LEADS Foundation champions plight of Pinoy farmers

For a country with such an intense appreciation (and appetite!) for food, it seems like the Philippines has not given enough priority to the people who grow it.

Clearly, the plight of Filipino farmers needs to be addressed.

Dire outlook for agricultural sector

According to 2021 data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), farmers and fisherfolk remain the poorest among the population. Belonging to the bottom 50% earners in the country, many farmers number among the nearly 20 million Filipinos living in extreme poverty.

And they are dwindling.

A separate report shows that the average age of Filipino farmers is now 57, up from 44 in 1971. Pretty soon, they will age out of the occupation with no one to take their place, not even their children. Rice farmers discourage their kids from pursuing farming as a career, holding the opinion that rice farming is physically tiring and not economically rewarding.

It is not surprising then that the Philippines had the highest number of moderately or severely food-insecure in Southeast Asia, with nearly 51 million Filipinos faced moderate or severe food insecurity in 2020 to 2022.

To counter these dire outlooks, the farming sector needs to be fully supported and empowered, equipped with knowledge and resources to survive and thrive amidst the challenges it continues to face.

Respect-driven initiatives for Filipino farmers

Lingap LEADS Foundation, Inc., the social development arm of the Leads Group of Companies, serves as the country’s premier advocate for the occupational health and safety for farmers. It seeks to rekindle the recognition of the crucial role that farmers play and to invest in their overall well-being.

The ten-person Lingap LEADS team led by Executive Director Dr. Angelique Malveda seeks to redefine Filipino farmers are visionary leaders. It shifted its initiatives from being based on charity and dole-outs to being rooted in respect, through initiatives that empower farmers and provide them with sustainable support.

To address the multi-faceted needs of farmers, Lingap LEADS focuses its efforts towards the following:

Lingap-Kasaka: Programs that promote the livelihood, health and welfare of farmers
Lingap Kapatid: Programs that assist people in need through collaborations with other foundations
Lingap Kapamilya: Programs in conjunction with the workforce and affiliated entities of its parent company

Stepping into farmers’ shoes

The hardships of rice planting are immortalized in the folk song “Magtanim ay ‘di Biro,” citing how farmers spend the day doing back-breaking work with almost no rest.

During its recent launch event for Harvesting Reverence, the foundation facilitated a unique and memorable way for my fellow bloggers and myself to truly appreciate the travails of local farmers: a hands-on rice planting experience!

Yep, I rolled up my sleeves, got down to the field and planted rice stalks on the muddy ground. Definitely, my ten minutes of stomping in the mud – equipped with my salakot and protective gear – are nothing compared to the long and exhausting hours that farmers expend in growing food.

It was quite a humbling and eye-opening experience and it brought to mind the need to support and uplift Filipino farmers.

Paving the way towards sustainability

Lingap LEADS also introduced its programs geared towards supporting four priorityamong the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) espoused by the United Nations (UN):

SDG#3 Good Health and Well-being (Lingap Kalusugan). Programs on health education, health care and health financing to promote farm occupational health and safety such as Lingap Lakbay Kalusugan that delivers free diagnostic test packages to underserved communities.
SDG#4 Quality Education (Lingap Kinabukasan). Programs that fuel the pursuit of knowledge that leads to a brighter future such as the Angat Pinoy Scholarship Program that helps farmers’ children and other students to continue their education.
SDG#8 Decent Work and Economic Growth (Lingap Kabuhayan). Programs that empower farmers through sustainable livelihood opportunities through respect-driven initiatives that uplift their economic well-being for long term prosperity. This includes Social EnterRICE which provides independent rice farmers with free access to Leads Agriventure’s premium Jackpot rice seeds, buys the harvest at above market price and funnels profits from sales of Jackpot rice into more programs that elevates the farmers.
SDG#13 Climate Action (Lingap Kalikasan). Programs that promote the best environmental conservation practices in the Leads Group worksites and the communities it serves. These include Planet CPR‘s sustainable plastic waste management drive that upcycles plastic bottles.

We depend so much on Filipino farmers to keep our citizens fed while still ensuring that our natural resources are maintained and cultivated for future generations.

It’s about time that they receive – not just our support and appreciation- but also our respect in return, right?

Thank you to Lingap LEADS Foundation for inviting me to its launch event!

For more information on Lingap LEADS Foundation and how you can support its programs, follow it on Facebook, call +63 917 1546247 or email partnership@lingapleads.org.

The Manila Hotel embraces Filipino traditions with glittering Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

In a vibrant celebration embracing Filipino customs, The Manila Hotel kicked off the holiday season with its enchanting Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 9. The centerpiece of the evening was the resplendent Christmas Tree, adorned meticulously with golden Ilang-Ilang blooms, paying homage to the Grand Dame’s official flower. The blend of gold, natural tones, and vibrant reds created a visually stunning display echoing the true essence of the season. This spectacular holiday décor was brought to life by the creative genius of Mr. Rachy Cuna, The Manila Hotel’s Creative & Design Director.

Distinguished Guests and Joyous Melodies

The ceremony welcomed esteemed personalities, including The Manila Hotel Chairman Basilio Yap, Vice Chairman Dr. Emilio Yap III, President Atty. Joey Lina, Chief Justice Diosdado Peralta, City of Manila Mayor Maria Sheilah “Honey” Lacuna Pangan, and other honored guests. Adding to the festive spirit, the Office of the President Chorale serenaded the audience with traditional Christmas carols.

Sharing the Season’s Spirit

Embodying the holiday spirit of giving and sharing, The Manila Hotel embraced the House of Refuge as the beneficiary of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The House of Refuge serves as a halfway house, offering shelter and meeting the basic needs of street children.

The Essence of Tradition

Marvin Kim Tan, The Manila Hotel Director of Sales and Marketing, expressed, “As we aspire to be a part of every family’s Christmas celebration, may our lit Christmas tree serve as a reflection of the hotel’s commitment to embodying the spirit of Filipino traditions this holiday season.”

Continuing the Festive Glow

With the Christmas Tree now radiantly glowing in the Grand Lobby, The Manila Hotel remains dedicated to spreading holiday cheer and upholding the spirit of Filipino traditions throughout the festive season.

About The Manila Hotel

Nestled next to kilometer zero (0) in the heart of Manila, The Manila Hotel stands as an iconic establishment within walking distance of the Philippines’ renowned landmarks. Since its inception in 1912, the hotel has maintained an esteemed status, offering over 500 well-appointed rooms and an array of function spaces. Boasting world-class amenities like the Manila Hotel Spa, pools, Health Club, a Heritage Museum, and an Art Gallery, it offers a unique window into history and contemporary art. With six dining outlets, each promising a distinct culinary journey, The Manila Hotel continues to provide an unparalleled experience for its guests.

Details provided in a recent press release.

18th AHF Cup: A celebration of hope through golf

Celebrating 25 years of making a difference in communities, the Ang-Hortaleza Foundation, Inc. is back with its 18th AHF Cup, an Open Golf Tournament. This year’s event, set to take place on October 6, 2023, at the West Course of the prestigious Wack Wack Golf & Country Club in Mandaluyong City, promises to be a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Elevating Lives through Entrepreneurship

The 18th AHF Cup is not just about golf; it’s about transforming lives. The foundation aims to raise funds for its various livelihood programs, supporting 500 budding entrepreneurs. These individuals will receive invaluable guidance through mentorship, skills training, and product development.

A United Front for Positive Change

The Ang-Hortaleza Foundation Inc. serves as the bridge between the Hortaleza Group of companies, including Prime Global Corporation, Prime Global Finance, and the beloved Barrio Fiesta brand. Together, they channel their Corporate Social Responsibility efforts into community enterprise development, education, environmental initiatives, and community service.

Founded by Dr. Rolando and Dr. Rosalinda Hortaleza, these companies’ unanimous commitment strengthens the foundation’s vision of improving society by creating employment and business opportunities for Filipinos.

Empowering through Programs

The foundation’s programs are designed to empower their beneficiaries by equipping them with life-changing skills. These skills open doors to job opportunities and entrepreneurial ventures, supplementing their daily needs and fostering sustainable growth.

Under these livelihood programs, mentorship activities are provided, ensuring that individuals receive ongoing support as they embark on their entrepreneurial journey.

Fighting Hunger and Malnutrition

The Ang-Hortaleza Foundation doesn’t stop at livelihood programs. They join hands with local government units (LGUs) to combat hunger, especially in vulnerable sectors at high risk of malnutrition. Their Supplemental Feeding program spans six months and includes actual feeding in targeted areas, provision of nutritional products to community kitchens, and distribution of food bags.

Get Involved

This year’s 18th AHF Cup promises to bring golf enthusiasts, philanthropists, and advocates of positive change together. By reaching a wider audience and spreading the word about their advocacies and programs, the foundation aims to enrich more lives and help uplift human dignity.

For inquiries and donations, please contact Mr. Percival Celestino at +63 929 1995383 or email anghortalezafoundation@gmail.com. Join hands with the Ang-Hortaleza Foundation, Inc. as they continue to be a beacon of hope and change in our communities.

Details provided in a recent press release.

Sun Life donates Php40 million to promote healthier lives among marginalized youth across Asia

Sun Life, a leading financial services company, is set to breathe new life into basketball courts and inspire healthier lifestyles among marginalized youth in communities across Asia with a generous donation of PHP 40 million. This philanthropic initiative, undertaken in partnership with Beyond Sport, a global sport-for-social-change foundation, aims to tackle the alarming rates of physical inactivity and sedentary behavior among children and adolescents in the region.

Answering the Call: Sun Life’s Response to Alarming Health Trends

The drive behind this inspiring endeavor stems from the findings of the 2022 Active Healthy Kids Global Alliance report, sponsored by Sun Life. This comprehensive study shed light on the troubling rise of physical inactivity among Asian youth, contributing to a slew of health issues including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, mental health challenges, and more.

According to the report, several Asian countries, including Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, scored dismally in terms of overall physical activity, with Hong Kong and Malaysia receiving a grade of ‘D,’ and Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam falling into the ‘F’ category. This means that fewer than 20% of children ages 6 to 17 are achieving an average of at least 60 minutes per day of moderate to vigorous physical activity throughout the week.

Sun Life Chief Client Experience and Marketing Officer, Carla Gonzalez-Chong, remarked, “Promoting movement is an important aspect of Sun Life’s health and wellness advocacy. We constantly explore fun and engaging ways to promote it among Filipinos, especially the youth. For this particular initiative, we took inspiration in our country’s love for basketball so we can encourage everyone to make physical activity a part of their lifestyle.”

Beyond Sport: A Collaborative Approach for Positive Change

Beyond Sport Executive Director, Fred Turner, emphasized that young people worldwide face barriers to accessing sports and the multitude of benefits it offers. Often, these barriers boil down to having a safe space to move and play. “We are proud to partner with Sun Life to improve physical and mental wellbeing outcomes for marginalized youth. We hope this program, built with community and sustainability in mind, will help them develop life-long habits that will allow them to thrive.”

#MovementMatters Gains Momentum

The ambitious initiative aligns seamlessly with Sun Life’s #MovementMatters campaign, which champions physical activity as a pivotal component of healthier living.

The campaign was launched with great enthusiasm through a 3×3 charity event held simultaneously in Manila and Jakarta, Indonesia, from August 18 to 20. In Manila, the “Sun Life 3×3 Charity Challenge” took place at SM Megamall, boasting a participation of 349 individuals, including celebrities and basketball influencers such as Gab Banal, Ael Banal, Brent Javier, Jollo Go, Andre Felix, Thor Gomez, Brent Paraiso, John Custodio, Axel Torres, Pat Sugui, Kirst Viray, Ralph Molina Martin Reyes, Miguel Aytona, Hendrix Jim, and Martin Javier.

Sun Life’s commitment to the cause was evident as they pledged PHP 4,000 for every participant in both Manila and Jakarta. Moreover, for every like, share, comment, and post on social media with the hashtag #MovementMatters, they contributed to a cumulative donation of PHP 40 million.

The event also dovetailed with the participation of Team Canada and its top players in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup taking place in Manila, with Sun Life serving as the Official Health & Wellness Partner of Canada Basketball.

“We’re thrilled about the momentum we’ve set for the #MovementMatters campaign and look forward to everyone’s continued support,” exclaimed Gonzalez-Chong. “With our concerted efforts, we can certainly help more people live healthier lives.”

Sun Life’s substantial contribution and dedication to fostering healthier futures for Asia’s marginalized youth exemplify the positive impact that corporate social responsibility can have on communities across the continent.

Details and images provided in a recent press release.

Sony Music and Hazel Faith give back this holiday season to charity Rise Against Hunger with ‘Season of Giving’ Campaign

Sony Music Entertainment Philippines and singer-songwriter Hazel Faith have partnered with charity, Rise Against Hunger, to support vulnerable communities locally impacted by food insecurity, whose situations have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

This comes as part of Sony Music Group’s global ‘Season of Giving’ campaign, where the company and its artists are giving back to every local community in which Sony Music Group (SMG) operates. Across the world, SMG is supporting global organizations dedicated to providing aid for those facing food insecurity, homelessness and refugee support, as well as music industry relief and educational programs for communities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hazel Faith x Sony Music x RISE Against Hunger

This also follows the support provided through Sony Music Group’s Global Social Justice Fund, to move the needle in broadening opportunities for underserved communities worldwide. In October, the company partnered with SPARK! Philippines to champion young women’s rights through music and film.

Beginning in the month of November, the Season of Giving program saw SMG committing sizeable amounts in each territory where the Company conducts business: Africa, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, Canada, Continental Europe, Latin America, United Kingdom, and the United States.

Since its beginnings in 2014, Rise Against Hunger Philippines has packaged over 543 million meals for vulnerable individuals across 78 countries, including over 7 million meals for people in the Philippines. With the funding from Sony Music Group, the organization will be able to reach 1.5 million people in communities most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, through the distribution of donated food items and relief packs to hungry households.

Jose Mariano Fleras, Executive Director, Rise Against Hunger Philippines, said, “COVID-19 has only worsened the hunger situation in the Philippines by costing people their livelihoods and making it more difficult for resources to reach those who really need them. We have unfortunately seen an additional four million households in the Philippines impacted because of the pandemic.”

“Through this partnership with Sony Music Group, we are in a stronger position to provide aid to vulnerable communities and double down on our outreach operations to address food and nutrition insecurity nationwide.”

As part of efforts to reach these communities, singer-songwriter Hazel Faith also partnered with the organization through a day of volunteering and performances for its beneficiaries. Hazel Faith is part of Sony Music Philippines’ Christian label WATERWALK RECORDS, which brings fresh Christian music infused with pop influences from faith-based artists to the new, streaming generation.

Hazel Faith said, “Food insecurity continues to plague many across the Philippines, and it is inspiring to see what organizations like Rise Against Hunger are doing to alleviate this problem. I’m grateful for the opportunity to perform for the beneficiaries of the program today, and proud to be part of a label that continues to give back to those in need this holiday season.”

In speaking of the seasonal initiative, Towalame Austin, Executive Vice President, Philanthropy and Social Impact, Sony Music Group, said, “Globally, SMG is committed to supporting local communities throughout the year. For the holiday season, we wanted to bring extra support and relief aid to those in need and dedicate our efforts to more than three million people worldwide. We’re grateful to our artists and international partner organizations who work on-the-ground to provide direct assistance to their neighbors.”

In addition to Hazel Faith, notable artists and songwriters who volunteered with partner organizations in their communities during a series of in-person events include India Shawn (Epic Records), Tyler Shaw (SME Canada), NOBITA (SME Philippines), Kobie Dee (SMP Australia), Tom Wilson (SMP Canada).

This campaign represents the Company’s ongoing philanthropic commitment to forge partnerships and support communities that need it most, inside and outside the music industry. For ‘Season of Giving’, every global organization selected to receive funding was determined by a group of global stakeholders including our internal task forces, legal and public policy teams. Learn more about SMG’s giving approach here.

Details and images provided in a recent press release.

SKY partners with Asian Eye Institute to give eye care to students in Luzon

Hundreds of students from Luzon have received free eye care to help them with their productivity and well-being as SKY partnered with the Asian Eye Institute to bring the “Kislap Mata: Malinaw na Mata, Malinaw na Kinabukasan” project.

Beneficiaries of the eye care program held in San Isidro Elementary School, San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, Sto. Tomas North Central School, and at Lagundi Elementary School, Morong, Rizal received free consultation, proper eye care workshops, and prescription glasses.

Zacquia Chua and Cassandra Baral of Lagundi Elementary School have difficulty in reading and catching up in class because of their poor eyesight. But as two of the beneficiaries of the eye care project, their glasses have been replaced.

“Mas makakapag-aral na po akong mabuti kasi makakakita na po akong mas maigi, salamat po sa SKY at Asian Eye” Cassandra said.

Across the various legs of the project, 575 students have attended the eye talks, 338 have received eye checkups, 108 have been given eye glasses while 23 have been referred to clinics for further checkup at Asian Eye Institute’s EyeSite is an ambulatory eye center with branches located in St. Frances Cabrini Medical Center in Sto. Tomas, Batangas; SM City Fairview; SM City Batangas and SM City Dasmariñas.

“We are happy to be part of this initiative. It gave us an opportunity to teach children what it means to have healthy eyes,” shares Asian Eye Institute Chief Operating Officer Alwin S. Sta. Rosa. More than just giving glasses to students that need them, it’s also important for children to learn good eye care habits early. “Kids are constantly exposed to technology so it’s good practice for them to rest their eyes every 20 minutes of studying or playing on gadgets. It’s also an effective way to prevent eye fatigue that can lead to headaches.”

Another factor to consider is good hand hygiene. Sta. Rosa adds, “We also remind children not to rub or scratch their eyes, because it’s the best way to avoid eye irritation or infections like sore eyes.”

To further support the aim of improving the students’ school performance, SKYcable and SKYdirect connections were donated to each school.

“We feel privileged and blessed that our students have been chosen as recipients of the ‘Kislap Mata’ program of SKYcable. Eyesight is very important for students. Without healthy eyes, they won’t be able to understand and read their lessons. Thank you very much to SKYcable and Asian Eye. Of all the schools in the Philippines, Morong got picked,” Lagundi Elementary School principal Claire Rino said.

SKY Head of Integrated Marketing Gidgette Faustino, shared SKYcable’s eagerness to help students, “We at SKY are grateful for the opportunity to help in any way we can, we envisioned ‘Kislap Mata’ project to help select students learn in their full capacity and more comfortably with clearer eyesight. We look forward to more learning advocacies that will help promote learning and education in the country,” she enthused.

Asian Eye Institute is a world-class eye institute that put the Philippines on the map of quality health care. It started in 2001, and provides a full range of specialized medical services, delivering safety and comfort of modern facilities, with some of the most advanced technology worldwide.

For more information on SKY, visit mysky.com.ph.

Program details and images provided in a recent press release.

Zomato’s 11th Anniversary – A Birthday with a Bang!

July 10 marks the 11th Anniversary of Zomato globally. And how would a food tech company celebrate its birthday? In a very special way, the Zomato team celebrated by conducting a food driveworldwide. In line with its mission of providing better food for more people, hundreds of Zomato employees and hunger heroes distributed meals to the underserved across 11 countries: India, Philippines, UAE, Lebanon, Portugal, Australia, Indonesia, New Zealand, Qatar, USA, and Turkey.

On the day of Zomato’s Birthday, July 10, Zomato Philippines gathered almost 2000 meals that were distributed to selected homeless, underprivileged, and less fortunate areas in Metro Manila. With the help of esteemed brands such as Jollibee, J.CO Donuts & Coffee, Chowking, BonChon Chicken, Long Time Ago, Kashmir, U! Happy, Sangkap, Yoshinoya, La Mère Poulard, ALTA by Relik, Tropical Hut, Rossini Ristorante Italiano, Kowloon House – Bangkal Makati, Recovery Food, Three Guys And A Grill, Uncle Moe’s Shawarma Hub, Buddy’s, Cabalen, Easy, Tiger, Pep Squad Events, AXA Philippines, Tang, and Hearty Bread, Zomato was able to distribute around 2,000 meals in less fortunate communities in Metro Manila. That’s 2000 smiles – a true celebration for Zomato’s Birthday in the Philippines!

The birthday bash was then followed by a Zomato Gold Experience last July 20, with the kids of Mertixell Children’s Foundation. It was themed sibling-for-a-day, where Zomato Gold Members willingly volunteered to be an ate or a kuya for a day. The afternoon was spent with giggles and cheers from the kids, as there was a lot of dancing, singing, fun, and games. An amazing Zomato Gold experience.

In the spirit of Zomato’s mission, better food for more people, the only way they ought to celebrate was to give back. Congratulations and Happy Birthday, Zomato!