As the world embraces the spirit of Christmas with open arms, SM group employees stepped out of the holiday rush and into the shoes of volunteers to spread social good through the "Christmas Cheers" gift-giving initiative spearheaded by SM Foundation and SM Supermalls.
Carl Maglangit, SM CDO Downtown's public relations manager, coordinated and organized the program for the local community — motivated, he said, by the spirit of generosity inherent in Christmas.
"I have always been inspired to someday share my blessings with the community. Now, it has happened and the experience felt magical for me. It taught me the value of generosity and that giving is a manifestation of love and kindness. I am now more empowered in community-giving, and with this passion, I can influence other people to do the same," Maglangit said.
One of the beneficiaries was PWD recipient Liza Corpuz who, according to Maglangit, "felt honored that their sector was chosen as one of the recipients of this program and that they are acknowledged in the community as equally essential citizens. Previously, she shared that they felt ignored and forgotten and felt terrible that they lacked the opportunity to receive help. Since last year, the Christmas Cheers program has uplifted their spirit to celebrate a merrier Yuletide."
For Maglangit, "The Filipino value of generosity has truly been lived through this activity. I am a firm believer that the true meaning of Christmas is giving. In this season, we will continue to aim to serve our community and give the message of how sharing happiness can uplift each other despite the many challenges we encounter."
Another SM volunteer who keeps the bayanihan spirit alive is Ron Ryan Malitig, an operation assistant at SM City Calamba. While it was his first time volunteering to help make Christmas Cheers a memorable experience for the beneficiaries, it definitely would not be the last, he said.
"Nothing beats the feeling of knowing that everyone in the community gets to celebrate Christmas with a smile on their faces and hearts. I know that volunteering will allow me to do just that — share my skills and bring genuine happiness to the community we happily serve," he said.
As the spirit of giving takes center stage this season, SM group's employee-volunteers embody the real meaning of celebrating Christmas: Giving to others for a kinder, stronger community.