PLDT, its wireless unit Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) and its social outreach arm PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF) continue to assist communities in distress by driving employee donations to pregnant mothers in crisis in Metro Manila.
The PLDT Group recently delivered aid, through the ‘Tulong kay Nanay’ program of Generations–Home, also known as ROHEI Foundation, a non-profit organization on a mission to end the orphan crisis in the Philippines through families.
PLDT and Smart, through their ‘Buy Local’ farm-to-market initiative, donated 35 sacks of 25kg rice, which were locally sourced from partner farming communities, to ‘Tulong kay Nanay’ to benefit pregnant mothers in need. Some of these donations were also directed to the children and mothers of Generations—Home’s partner organizations Grace To Be Born and Adonai Home.
Apart from immediately addressing hunger, PLDT and Smart also provided sustainable livelihood opportunities to chosen nanays to help jumpstart their small business. Goods were sourced from an agro-based MSME that PLDT and Smart are currently supporting through its BuyLocal Bazaar project with TikTok Shop.
“This initiative is part of our commitment to champion inclusion to help uplift marginalized sectors such as mothers in need and local farmers who face significant challenges,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, Head of Stakeholder Management Team at PLDT and Smart.
“I currently earn minimum wage and this seller starter package from the ‘Buy Local Bazaar’ on TikTok Shop will be an additional source of income so I can support my children. I am also thankful for accessible and affordable digital tools to help me with this new venture,” shared one of the mothers from ‘Tulong kay Nanay’.
Another mother added how the modest pangkabuhayan package from PLDT and Smart can further support her and her family, “I already own a physical store that offers fruits, vegetables, and frozen goods. I will start selling these bottled food packs and also utilize TikTok Shop to help me reach more potential customers.”
“This advocacy is close to our hearts, stemming from our gratitude for our mothers. We thank all the nanays here with us today for showing up not just today, but every day for your children. We at PLDT-Smart Foundation will help you in this journey in the best way we can,” said Esther O. Santos, President of PSF.
This initiative helps underscore the mission of PLDT, Smart, and PSF to help women and children in need, especially the vulnerable and marginalized, leaving no one behind.
“Thank you for giving PLDT and Smart the opportunity to make a difference through the generosity of our employees,” added Cherry Papa, Head of Employee Engagement at PLDT and Smart.
This is also aligned with the UN SDGs #1 No Poverty, #2 Zero Hunger, #3 Good Health and Well-being, #5 Gender Equality, and #8 Decent Work and Economic Growth.