Employees of Standard Chartered Bank donated P1.5 million to support relief and recovery efforts for indigenous Lumad families affected by the 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Mindanao in June.

The employee-led initiative, carried out in partnership with the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), provided assistance to hundreds of families in upland barangays of Maasim, Sarangani Province, particularly members of the T’boli and Blaan communities.

Bank volunteers, together with PBSP, Maasim Vice Mayor Visitacion Nambatac and OND HESED Foundation, distributed relief and recovery kits to more than 280 priority households in isolated communities in General Santos City and Sarangani Province.

The kits were intended to help affected families rebuild and regain access to essential food, hygiene, shelter and other daily-use items following the earthquake.

“This employee-led donation and volunteering reflect the compassion and solidarity of our colleagues in the Philippines, and Standard Chartered Bank’s commitment to stand with communities during times of disaster,” said Mai Sangalang, head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing of Standard Chartered Philippines.

“We are grateful to the PBSP and the local partners who helped ensure that support reaches communities where recovery needs remain urgent. Beyond the funds raised, our volunteers were privileged to engage directly with affected families and contribute to the distribution of essential recovery items,” Sangalang added.

Standard Chartered said the initiative forms part of its continued community investment, employee-led fundraising and volunteering efforts supporting communities affected by disasters and other urgent needs.

The bank said it remains committed to creating a positive impact in the communities where it operates.