(An elderly of Brgy. Almacen, Hermosa, Bataan happily is holding “Kalinga Pack” happily. Photo by Lyka Yalung)
In partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the local government unit of Bataan, and SM City Tarlac, SM Foundation Inc. thru its Operation Tulong Express (SMFI-OPTE) continued to provide assistance to the earthquake-stricken families in Brgy. Almacen, Hermosa, Bataan on April 28, 2019.
After magnitude 6.1 quake jolted parts of Luzon last April 22, 2019 (Monday), SMFI has tirelessly reached out and responded to the different areas largely affected by the earthquake. They provided Kalinga Packs of bottled water and groceries to 500 affected families at Brgy Pio and Planas in Porac, Pampanga on April 26, 2019. The same help was also extended to the affected families of Sitio Cahapa, Cuartel, Ibad and Kakilingan of Brgy. Adlao, Sta. Fe, Rabanes and Buhawen in San Marcelino, Zambales.
Meanwhile, the affected 75 families of Bataan are deeply thankful to SM for also reaching to their province. They wish SM well and that they will be able to help more communities. They promised to remain strong and positive despite what happened.
Through its disaster response initiatives and main theme “Supporting Communities”, SMFI-OPTE is one of the first responders which aim to provide immediate assistance to nearby communities affected should there be any calamities or natural disasters such as but not limited to typhoons, massive fire and earthquake. Hundred thousands of families are served in the form of medicine and other basic needs. SMFI’s nationwide presence with SM Malls built in almost all nooks of the country, they are able to provide assistance in a timely manner. In heavily affected areas, they also make it a point to conduct first aid treatments and basic medical care.
Today, the foundation has reached out to a total of 288,699 families since 2013 and will continue to provide help in the service of Filipino families.
