SM Supermalls has partnered with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and some of the country’s most respected organizations, each with expertise in conservation, to protect six critically endangered animals found in the Philippines. The campaign – launched in partnership with Kultura, Banco De Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO), World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Forest Foundation Philippines (FFP), Zoological Society of London (ZSL), D’Aboville Foundation (DAF ), Philippine Eagle Conservation Program Foundation (PEF) and KATALA Foundation – has aim to raise both awareness and funds to protect these species and the communities that depend on them.
The DENR and SM Supermalls have partnered with the following organizations for the conservation of these species:
- The Dugonga gentle marine mammal often seen in the waters around the Philippines, and the Philippine turtleincluding several endangered species of sea turtles, are supported by Kabang Kalikasan ng Pilipinas Foundation Inc. (KKPFI)/WWF-PH;
- The Philippine cockatooalso known as the red-vented cockatoo and native to the country’s forests, it is protected by the KATALA Foundation;
- The Philippine Eaglethe country’s national bird, known for its majestic size and critically low population, is protected by the Philippine Eagle Foundation; And
- The Tamarawa dwarf buffalo found only on the island of Mindoro is cared for by the D’Aboville Foundation (DAF), and;
- The Pangolina critically endangered scaled mammal from Palawan, is championed by the Zoological Society of London (ZSL).
As part of the “Save from extinction” campaign will provide SM Supermalls with key platforms to raise awareness through posters, videos and fundraising booths at the malls. Participating malls include SM City North EDSA, SM Megamall, SM Makati, SM Aura and SM Mall of Asia, starting October 18. These booths will showcase exclusive Kultura merchandise, with proceeds supporting conservation efforts.
Kultura’s range of merchandise includes t-shirt designs for both adults and children in a range of colours, with each product highlighting one of six endangered animals. There are also canvas carrier bags with the animals for sale.
Kultura’s exclusive merchandise collection for Save From Extinction features artwork from the dugong, pangolin, pawikantamaraw, cockatoo and Philippine eagle on t-shirts and tote bags.
During the launch, SM Supermalls President Steven Tan reaffirmed the company’s commitment to this vital cause: “At SM Supermalls, we are committed to protecting these remarkable creatures and their habitats. Through our shopping centers and platforms, we are taking concrete steps to raise awareness and take action that ensures their survival for future generations.”
BDO uses its extensive national network to support the campaign and offers donation channels through its ATMs nationwide. This integration makes it easier for the public to contribute, expanding the campaign’s reach to thousands of communities. The money raised goes directly to NGOs committed to the conservation of every species.
“This collaboration is not just about saving endangered animals; it is about supporting the communities they belong to,” said Hanna Carinna Sy, SM Supermalls assistant vice president for special events and tenant marketing. “Our goal is to ensure the survival of these animals while creating lasting economic, social and environmental benefits for future generations.”
This initiative is a key pillar in SM’s broader sustainability strategy and reinforces its unwavering commitment to environmental conservation. By mobilizing its resources and partners for this crucial cause, SM is taking concrete action toward a sustainable future, where both people and wildlife can thrive.
For more information about the Save From Extinction campaign, visit smsupermalls.com/save-from-extinction.
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