SM Foundation’s 1,210 scholars across the Philippines are now better equipped for their studies through the electronic tablets gifted by Mastercard, The SM Store, and their customers.
Shop & Share campaign, which ran for three days in October 2021, allowed The SM Store shoppers nationwide to take part in the initiative. For every Mastercard transaction in-store or via the Personal Shopper, regardless of the amount, Mastercard gave P100 to the drive geared towards supporting the online learning of select student beneficiaries.
SM scholar Rica Mae Panotes receives an e-tablet from The SM Store Shop & Share with Mastercard campaign
“Shop & Share with Mastercard is a great example of a shared value in action. Through simple business-as-usual transactions in our stores using Mastercard, we were able to raise funds to buy electronic tablets for SM Foundation’s scholars,” said Chelo Monasterio, The SM Store president. “We are fortunate to have found an ally in Mastercard to give back through this campaign.”
Mastercard Country Manager Simon Calasanz reiterated how partnerships could help make big goals a reality, and this is his hope for the scholars receiving the e-tablets. “I hope the e-tablets will make a positive impact on your education and in your lives. Perhaps, one day, it could be your initiatives driving financial inclusion and sustainability in the country.”
SM Foundation scholars expressed support to The SM Store, Mastercard, and SM Foundation during the online turnover ceremony held on March 26, 2022, via Zoom. The SM Store led by its President Chelo Monasterio (top leftmost), and Mastercard executives led by its Country Manager Simon Calasanz (top center) attended the ceremony.
In turn, Eleanor Lansang, SM Foundation Senior Assistant Vice President for Scholarship Program, highlighted the importance of students being equipped with the right devices for their learning. “With your support, we are able to empower students, giving them a fighting chance in their current education and, eventually, the workplace. This will enable them to uplift the economic status of their families and eventually inspire them to spread social good in their respective communities.”
In addition to supporting SM Foundation’s programs on education, health, and disaster response The SM Store also implements regular corporate social responsibility programs to share happiness with communities through various donation drives such as Share Your Extras, Share Shoes, Donate A Book, and Share A Toy. Year-round, all branches house coin boxes for the benefit of the company’s partner organizations, such as UNICEF, Tahanang Walang Hagdanan, Good Neighbors the Philippines, and World Vision.