SM Cares’ coastal cleanup drive removes 30 tons of trash

Five thousand volunteers from all walks of life removed 30,000 kilograms of trash from shorelines across the Philippines during the nationwide coastal cleanup organized by SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, on 7 June to mark World Oceans Day 2025.

Armed with gloves and sacks, the volunteers undertook the shared mission of protecting the oceans that give life, inspired by the event’s theme of “WONDER: Sustaining What Sustains Us.”

At the same time, SM Cares helped foster community collaboration, promote environmental responsibility, enhanced the overall quality of life for local residents through a healthier environment, and contributed to the long-term preservation of marine ecosystems.

“The oceans sustain us every day, and now it’s our turn to give back,” said Engr. Liza Silerio, SM Cares program director for the environment. “This coastal cleanup isn’t just a one-day event — it’s a symbol of our shared duty to preserve biodiversity and inspire action for a sustainable future, while bringing lasting positive impacts to the community by advancing healthier coastal spaces, and uniting people through shared environmental action.”

A national movement for the seas

From students and teachers to local government units (LGUs), non-government organization partners, employees, and security and janitorial teams, the cleanup drew a diverse wave of ocean defenders. SM Cares worked closely with LGUs, environmental organizations, youth groups, and coastal barangays to stage cleanups across several major sites nationwide.

These collaborations not only ensured the success of the initiative but also highlighted the power of inclusive, community-driven action.

Building an #SMWasteFreeFuture

The 7 June coastal cleanup is part of SM Cares’ broader sustainability vision through its #SMWasteFreeFuture campaign, which also includes weekly cleanups at SM by the BAY.

This May 2025, SM employee-led cleanups have mobilized a total of 279 volunteers, collecting over 4,493 kilograms of waste — highlighting their firm commitment to keeping our coasts clean on a weekly basis. These sustained efforts contributed to creating a safer, more enjoyable coastal spaces for customers, while encouraging a stronger culture of environmental volunteerism.

SM Cares’ Coastal Cleanup also supports and aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), most notably SDG 14: Life Below Water, by directly reducing marine pollution and protecting ocean ecosystems. It also contributes to SDG 13: Climate Action, by raising environmental awareness and promoting community-led climate resilience, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, through its collaboration with LGUs, NGOs, schools and communities.

With two more major cleanups planned for the year, SM Cares remains determined in its mission to inspire Filipinos to take action — one shoreline at a time.