SMASHED: changing the way we talk about underaged drinking

Every parent knows you can shout at the top of your voice until you’re blue in the face, but you can’t always make children listen. Especially if what you are shouting about is something that is potentially dangerous, but their peers more commonly believe is “cool”.

It doesn’t matter if you’re right or wrong, it doesn’t matter if you have their best interests at heart, it doesn’t matter that you might have lived through the very same thing that they are and are trying to help them not make your mistakes. After kids hit a certain age, adults become the enemy.

So how do you get an important message through to adolescents? By using one of the most powerful communication tools known to man: storytelling.

“Teach us how the world is put together and the rules of living in the world, and they come in an attractive enough package that we take pleasure from them and want to help them propagate.” ~Neil Gaiman, wildly successful author and graphic novelist

Invention born of necessity

It is given that youths of today will experiment with many things as they grow older, regardless of the environment and socio-economic conditions they grew up in.

Unfortunately, this means that the vast majority of young people all across the world will come across the chance to sample substances: nicotine, alcohol, or even illegal drugs.

Smashed, which was launched in the Philippines through a collaboration between Diageo Philippines and PETA Plus in partnership with UK-based company Collingwood Learning. It is a groundbreaking global program that is a pillar of Diageo’s Society 2030: Spirit of Progress commitment to tackle underage drinking.

Chris Simes, the Managing Director for Collingwood Learning, recognizes that in order to nip the problem in the bud, one has to take a completely different approach other than lecturing the youth. 

“This is a real change from the usual approach to alcohol education in schools and one that makes the risks of underage drinking impossible to forget. We understand that because of the pandemic, both teachers and students are still adjusting to the current normal. But we want to help carry the learning forward by providing high-quality teaching resources for use, despite the pandemic. We’re thrilled to be working with PETA Plus and the Department of Education in the Philippines to produce new innovative online learning solutions to supplement the highly successful live approach.” ~Chris Simes, the Managing Director for Collingwood Learning

Inevitably, kids who start drinking at an early age do not have minds and bodies that are able to process alcoholic beverages. They get lured into it by seeing it as a rite of passage, a means of escape, or a social requirement.

On its second run, Smashed utilizes a novel approach, with additional features designed for more interaction with its target audience.

Conceptualized during the time when education was adapting to the new constraints of being unable to hold physical classes, the Smashed Philippine project initially launched in September 2021. It was an interactive website (online.smashedproject.org) that sought to empower Filipino teens and preteens to make better choices by harnessing their critical thinking skills.

Smashed utilized an online platform featuring a gripping story with three main characters and even has a feature that makes the viewer feel like they are actually on video calls with the characters as they follow along.

What’s the problem?

It’s easy to ignore a problem you don’t see. Teens learn how to drink from adults. They think it's okay because they see it everyday, and sometimes, they are even encouraged to drink, especially males. Adults will sometimes allow their children to drink inside their homes with their friends because it is 'safer', saying, "mas okay nang dito ka mag-inom sa bahay kesa sa labas".

But the Philippines does have an underage drinking culture. If you’re ever in doubt about this fact, just ask the kids.

“Bilang kabataan, mas marami akong nakikitang proud maging alcoholic. Salamat at dahil sa Smashed mas lumawak ang aking kaalaman sa mga panganib ng alcohol,” says Ashley. “Mas magandang piliin ang tama kasya sa udyok ng ibang tao.” ~Ashley Mae Torres, a tenth-grade student from Quirino High School

That’s a worrying statement indeed, but she also credits Smashed, seeing the potential good in the program. 

The Philippines, which has a thriving drinking culture, reports that 70% of the population has consumed alcohol before the age of 14, despite it being illegal for stores and restaurants to sell or serve the substance to minors. This could be a problem.

Sometimes the adults in the lives of young drinkers are the problem. In a scathing insight, the winner of the Smashed essay writing contest notes, 

“Ang problem po sa underage drinking sa bansa natin ay ine-encourage pa ng ibang family na ‘uy uminom ka’. Diyan din ako nagsimula ayaw ko pang uminom pero kinalaunan umiinom na rin ako tapos na-enjoy ko na rin. Pero ‘yun po yung mali talaga. We have to break that mindset. Napansin ko po yung kay Miko and kay Jella na yung pinagdadaanan po nila sa buhay nila, sa personal life nila is yun po yung ineexplain po nun kung bakit sila may addiction sa drinking pero it’s not an excuse sa behavior na pinapakita nila. Yung pagiging iresponsable nila, yung kawalan nila ng respeto sa ibang tao, kumbaga hindi sila main character sa buhay na ito at hindi lang sila ang maapektuhan sa buhay na ginagawa nila.” ~Angel Borda, from Don Alejandro Roces Sr. Science-Technology High School emphasizes that the relatability of the situations of the characters was especially helpful in this case

The American-based National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAA) has published research that has found that those who get into the habit of alcohol consumption earlier in life may suffer more from it than those who learn to drink at an appropriate age. It states that “youthful patterns of alcohol use can mark the start of a developmental pathway that may lead to abuse and dependence”, and that continued drinking may lead to physiological reactions, such as depression or anxiety disorders, triggering an even greater reliance on the substance to alleviate the symptoms of these disorders. That’s already discounting the immediate effects of alcohol on young minds, which could lead to poor decision-making, patterns of antisocial behavior, and impaired motor skills. Finally, there is also the detrimental effect of extensive alcohol exposure on developing vital organs such as the liver and brain.

 

Lofty goals and marked successes

During its initial rollout in the Philippines in 2021, Smashed was supported by 120 schools in 17 regions and managed to get up in front of an audience of 17,700 young people. With the Department of Education and other academic institutions serving as partners, Smashed Online was able to equip educators and young leaders with workshops and training.

For 2023, the program’s goal is to be able to get its message through to over 25,000 students, partnering with schools and educators all over the Philippines. It is the program’s target to reach 300,000 Filipino youths by 2030 by working in close collaboration with the Department of Education.

“We are proud to support an important program to address the dangers associated with underage drinking like Smashed in the Philippines. This is part of our Society 2030: Spirit of Progress at Diageo, and we are confident that we can make a positive impact with the Filipino youths in making informed choices about alcohol and combat alcohol related harm for generations to come.” ~Shanahan Chua, Corporate Relations Director of Diageo Philippines

According to the Philippines’ Smashed Online Project Manager, Gold Villar-Lim, in 2022, 93% of the total participants surveyed reported a marked attitudinal change.

“Overall, the project is not only a big step in advocating for alcohol education and youth empowerment, but also in promoting applied theater and drama-in-education as effective teaching tools in the Philippines.” ~Gold Villar-Lim, Philippines’ Smashed Online Project Manager

It isn’t just about making a connection with the participants, either. Smashed tries to melt the resistance that most children seem to have towards reaching out to adults to help in case they find themselves in a sticky spot due to alcohol, especially their parents. And it seems that the message is getting through.

Even educators are impressed. 

“Highly recommended talaga ang Smashed PH kasi na-to-touch niya yung mga buhay at talagang nangyayari araw araw sa mga mag-aaral, says. Mas maganda kung mas maraming schools ang ma-rereach out ng Smashed PH para sila ay mag-enjoy at mas matuto about alcoholic beverages.” ~Russel Radaza, a department head at President Sergio Osmeña High School Manila

This sentiment is echoed by Jennifer Rances, a teacher at Sipocot National High School in Camarines Sur. 

“Sa akin naman, talagang napakalaking tulong po nito na sa mga young learners lalo na ngayon iba na ang gusto nilang gawin hindi na sila nakafocus,” she says, emphasizing the lack of connection between a child’s attention span and traditional methods of education. She goes on to stress that “with these kinds of projects, talagang magiging focus nila ay [...] ano ba talaga yung nangyayari sa society at ano ba talaga yung realidad. With this kind of project that Smashed Ph has, talagang sa tingin ko sobrang positive ako na madedevelop ang mga bata rito. Lahat madedevelop including their skills, pati yung mga talents nila at yung focus din even leadership skills.” ~Jennifer Rances, a teacher at Sipocot National High School in Camarines Sur

Could this change in the approach to the conversation create lasting effects in the way we approach underage drinking? Will it create deliberate and productive conversations between children at risk and the adults who are in the position to guide them? Evidence points to the possibility of both, and although only time will tell, Smashed Ph is definitely taking the necessary steps in the right direction.

About Diageo

Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands across spirits, beer and wine categories. We have brands that have over 200 years of history and heritage behind them, such as Johnnie Walker and Singleton Whiskies, Tanqueray Gin, Baileys Liqueur, Captain Morgan Rum and Ketel One and Smirnoff Vodka.

Diageo is a global company, and our products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. The company is listed on both the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and the New York Stock Exchange (DEO). For more information about Diageo, our people, our brands, and performance, visit us at www.diageo.com.

 

Visit Diageo’s global responsible drinking resource, www.DRINKiQ.com, for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practice.

 

About PETA PLUS

The Philippine Educational Theater Association-Plus (PETA- PLUS) is the business expansion unit of PETA which primarily takes charge of projects outside of the company’s seasonal theatrical and educational programs. Through the years, it has produced and provided creative resources for performances, lectures, festivals, conferences, and other special events in collaboration with various cultural as well as corporate institutions. Some institutions which the TCP has recently worked with include British Council, Japan Foundation, United Nations Population Fund, Consuelo Zobel Alger Foundation, TOWNS Foundation Inc., and Unilab Inc.

About Collingwood Learning

Founded in 2005, Collingwood Learning tells inspiring stories to help people learn. Using theater, film, and interactive learning, Collingwood enables people, young and old, to observe, explore, and reflect on important social issues; developing new behaviours and attitudes to help them achieve their potential. https://www.collingwoodlearning.com/.

Local farmers in Calabarzon to receive training on modern farming techniques

KSK-SAP farmers and partners from San Pablo City, Laguna

SM Foundation, Inc. (SMFI) has taken another step in its mission to enhance the agriculture and entrepreneurial skills of farmers. The organization recently launched the Kabalikat sa Kabuhayan on Sustainable Agriculture Program (KSK-SAP) across various locations in Calabarzon. 

Beginning with its launch in Padre Garcia, Batangas on April 13, 2023, the program has since been extended to Silang, Cavite, Batangas City, San Pablo, Laguna, and Calamba City. SMFI is also set to provide free agri-skills training to local farmers in other parts of the region to help other beneficiaries uplift their families and communities.

Empowering local farmers 

 

The local farmer-beneficiaries will undergo a two-phased program, spearheaded by its partner school Moca Family Farm RLearning Center, Inc.  

 

The said program kicked off with an immersive 14-week training program, designed to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge in agriculture. The modular training curriculum covers topics on the latest agri-technology updates, capacity building, financial literacy, product development, and market opportunities. Through these comprehensive modules, KSK-SAP aims to empower and enhance farmers’ agricultural practices and explore avenues for sustainable growth. 

As a highlight of the program's first phase, KSK-SAP farmers will join the SM Sunday Market, a collaborative initiative between SM Foundation and SM Supermalls. This platform offers trainees a valuable opportunity to showcase their agricultural produce and gain firsthand experience in institutional selling. Through this market opportunity, participants can not only generate income but also cultivate their expertise and experience in the sales and marketing aspects of their agri-businesses.

To prepare for the second phase of the program, SMFI will also assist the farmers in formalizing their respective groups. To boost their earning capactiy and contribution to economic growth, the foundation will support them in creating a sustainable and profitable farming community through the assistance of its partner agencies. 

KSK-SAP originated from the vision of SMFI’s founder Henry "Tatang" Sy Sr. to establish a sustainable initiative that would uplift the farming skills, food security, and livelihood know-how of low-income Filipino farmers. Over the years, the program has evolved into a comprehensive training program that generates opportunities for skills development, employment, and livelihood.

Since its inception in 2007, KSK-SAP has helped more than 28,000 marginalized farmers from rural and urban areas across the country, fueling their entrepreneurial and farming capabilities. As a result, some of the program's graduates have turned into seasonal suppliers for the SM group and other local markets.

SM Foundation’s KSK-SAP is conducted in partnership with SM Supermalls, TESDA, DA, DSWD, DOST, DTI, DOT and partner farm schools.

SM Prime’s second annual integrated report receives multiple recognition from international organizations

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime), one of the leading integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, has been recognized by three international award-giving bodies for excellence in transparent Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) reporting for its 2021 Annual Integrated Report entitled "Together, We Rise".

SM published its sustainability reports since 2013 even before the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) mandated sustainability reporting in the Philippines. SM Prime further promotes transparency and accountability by informing investors and stakeholders of its ESG performance and impacts, decision-making processes, and competitive positioning value in the sector.

“We are honored to receive these awards as a recognition of our commitment to provide transparent reporting in our sustainable practices. We value all our stakeholders, and we strive to enrich the quality of life of the Filipino people.” ~Mr. Jeffrey Lim, SM Prime President

At the summit of international recognitions, SM Prime bagged accolades from the biggest and most coveted awards competition in the business world called Stevie® Awards. The Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards recognizes business innovation across the entire Asia-Pacific region, whereas IBAs is one of the first and most highly anticipated awards programs of the Stevie Awards that features a wide variety of categories relevant to every facet of the workplace that is open to all kinds and sizes of organizations globally. SM Prime was awarded the Bronze Stevie® Winner at the 2023 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards program and Silver Stevie® Winner in the 2022 International Business Awards (IBAs).

Also, in the regional scene, the company won a Silver Rank in the Asia Sustainability Reporting Rating (ASRRAT) 2022, a sustainability report ranking by the National Center for Sustainability Reporting (NCSR). ASRRAT’s rating system employs criteria based on GRI Standards compliance, GHG disclosures transparency, and alignment with and support of the UN SDGs, among other factors. 

The international recognitions are a testament to SM Prime’s active role in championing sustainability across its operations as it continues to be a catalyst for economic growth, delivering innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities, thereby enriching the quality of life of millions of people. 

A boost in delivering quality healthcare

Through the newly renovated health center, residents of Brgy. District 1 health center enjoy free medical checkups.

In 1971, the Philippines launched the Community Health Organization Program to classify health services into primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. As part of this initiative, barangay health stations were created to ensure that primary healthcare improves the overall health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities. 

Since then, these local health centers have played a crucial role in improving the health outcomes of Filipinos. They have not only provided general healthcare services but also served as agents during the COVID-19 pandemic and helped with the vaccination rollout. Additionally, they continue to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent diseases, particularly among vulnerable populations.

Adequate facilities for improved healthcare

SM Foundation (SMFI) has made it its mission to provide adequate facilities and upgraded equipment to boost health centers as they fulfill their mandate of delivering quality health care, even amid the pandemic.

Pursuing its mission, SMFI and UNIQLO Philippines traveled to the cities of Tuguegarao and Cauayan in Cagayan Valley and upgraded two health facilities serving thousands of Filipinos. Beyond the new infrastructure, health workers see it as a chance to put forth the services they have always drawn from the heart.

In Brgy. District 1, Cauayan, Midwife Tarita Ann Ballasteros has tended to patients from low-income households, who barely have money to spare for the fare going to the facility and to buy medicine. She would then give the best care she can offer to compensate for the limitations of their center.

“Nakikita ko ang sitwasyon nila na ultimo pamasahe, wala sila. Iniisip ko, wala man lang akong maibigay na gamot sa kanila. Para sa akin, hindi ko man sila lubos na mapagaling, lalabas sila sa facility na magaan ang pakiram dahil sa tinatawag nating TLC (tender loving care). It takes time to prepare and attend to the next patient. Kailangan pa namin takpan ng kumot o ilock ang pinto ng center para magkaroon ng privacy ang mga pasyente. Dahil dito, isa lang ang naaaccommodate namin. Minsan, hindi sila komportable dahil nakikita ng iba yung procedure na ginagawa namin sa kanila. Malaki ang connection ng renovation ng center sa pagsasaayos ng kalusugan ng aming komunidad. Kaming mga health workers ay mas eager na sa pag-pasok sa trabaho at mas marami na kaming pasyenteng mabibigyan ng serbisyo at matutulungan. Dahil maganda na at maaliwalas, nakakatulong ito para gumaan ang pakiramdam ng pasyente bago pa man sila gamutin.” ~Tarita Ann Ballasteros, Brgy. District 1, Cauayan, Midwife

Before, they had to use curtains as improvised medical partitions or lock the health center’s door to provide comfort to women seeking reproductive health care or pregnant mothers coming in for prenatal checkups.

Through the upgrade, the Brgy. District 1 Health Center had its own room for maternal and child health services, equipped with necessary medical tools. It was also fitted with a breastfeeding area and a designated space for immunization.

The upgrade served as the boost they needed to complement the TLC they have always given their community.

A change for the better

Sharing the same passion for health care service is Corazon Tanguilan, a Barangay Health Worker from Brgy. Cataggaman Pardo Health Center in Tuguegarao City. 

“As a healthcare provider, hindi po namin gaano iniisip ang kalakihan ng aming health center. Ang importante po ay taos pusong pagbibigay ng serbisyo sa patients namin. Nasa kalooban po namin kung paano namin gagawing maayos pagpapatakbo ng aming operasyon. Sira po ang aming mga tiles. Mahirap po ito dahil baka madulas o mapaano ang aming mga pasyente na kadalasan ay buntis at mga bata. Kaya nilagyan na lang po namin ito ng masking tape para makaiwas sa aksidente. During immunization days, may mga pregnant mothers na darating for prenatal check-up. Ine-entertain namin sila dahil hindi namin puwedeng pauwiin ulit at pabalikin pa. Mahalaga po ang sapat na espasyo para maisagawa ang infection prevention and control measures. Kaya mainam po ang ginawa ng SM Foundation na pagpapalawak ng health center namin para sa kaligtasan ng patients namin. 27 years na po ako sa serbisyo at bihira po ang health center na naka-aircon at well-ventilated. Kaya ngayon pong naisaayos na po ito, tiyak po ako na mas maeengganyo ang constituents ng  namin na pumunta sa aming Center.” ~Corazon Tanguilan, Barangay Health Worker from Brgy. Cataggaman Pardo Health Center in Tuguegarao City

Through their dedication, they strived to accommodate the healthcare needs of their patients despite unfortunate working conditions–from broken tiles, cracked wall paint, and damaged cabinets to limited electric fans for ventilation.

Due to the center’s layout and space limitations, it became even more difficult for them during the pandemic. With sick children, pregnant women, and TB-DOTs patients, it felt like a weight was pressed against their chests as they hoped to safely accommodate all patients while implementing social distancing.

As their center was rebuilt from the ground up, they felt relief and gained renewed optimism to improve their operations.

In addition to the installation of new equipment and facilities, complemented by cosmetic improvements such as fresh paint and tiles, the upgraded health centers now include designated rooms for maternal care, medical check-ups, and TB-DOTs treatment. The spacious and well-ventilated lobby provides a warm welcome to the people of Tuguegaraonos, encouraging them to pursue healthy living and become valuable contributors to the growth of their city. 

SM group to build new school buildings in Laguna, Batangas

Continuing its commitment to helping elevate the country's education system, SM Foundation, Inc. (SMFI), in partnership with SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SMPHI) and the Department of Education (DepEd), have recently collaborated to construct two new school buildings in Laguna and Batangas.

Upon the completion of the joint initiative, two two-story four-classroom school buildings will be donated to the Laguna Resettlement Community School in San Pedro City, Laguna and the San Antonio Elementary School in Sto. Tomas City, Batangas.

Each of the school buildings is set to be equipped with learning materials, armchairs, handwashing facilities, emergency equipment, and PWD-friendly facilities to ensure that students, especially from low-income communities, gain access to modern, safe, and conducive learning facilities.

Formalizing the partnership, representatives from the SMFI, DepEd, and the local government units of said provinces attended the memorandum of agreement signing last April 28, 2023, at the National Educators Academy of the Philippines (NEAP) in Malvar, Batangas.

SM Foundation, through its School Building Program, is an active partner of DepEd in various educational programs. This social good initiative aims to promote quality public education by building classrooms nationwide. To date, it has turned over more than 100 school buildings to grassroots communities.

NegoSentro Media Appoints Mark Saberola as Editor-In-Chief, Launches Kuya Mark Video Podcast

In an exciting development for the Auto & Tech space, NegoSentro Media has appointed experienced automotive industry professional Mark Saberola as the new Editor-in-Chief for their Auto & Tech website. Alongside this, they are introducing a fresh video podcast series, featuring Saberola, who will adopt the persona of "Kuya Mark".

Mark Saberola, also known as "The Talyer Mentor," brings to his new role at NegoSentro Media's Auto & Tech platform an exceptional breadth of expertise in the automotive business. From his early career at Ford Motor Company to establishing the successful ValuePlus Auto Service franchise, Saberola's career trajectory exemplifies a unique blend of hands-on experience and leadership acumen. Further bolstering his credentials is his technology startup, AutoServed, which reflects his profound grasp of innovation and technology within the automotive sector. Saberola's diverse insights and experiences are set to make a significant contribution to NegoSentro Media's Auto & Tech platform.

“Mark is the perfect choice for me. Besides being a co-alumnus at the Asian Institute of Management, his years of balanced experience in the motoring industry are commendable. We are thrilled to have Mark spearhead this new initiative. His knack for engaging storytelling, will make 'Kuya Mark' a standout addition to our lineup of digital content. We have been searching for a year now for an EIC for our motoring niche, and Mark is a perfect fit. As someone who’s well-versed in both motoring and tech, he will drive the publication to new heights." ~Homer Nievera, NegoSentro’s Chief Digipreneur

The podcast will feature enlightening conversations with personalities from both the auto and tech spaces, as well as other areas of interest. Saberola's goal is to create a platform for diverse voices, promoting innovation, industry insights, and inspiring success stories.

The Kuya Mark video podcast will be a highlight of Saberola's role at NegoSentro. The twice-monthly podcast will cover a broad spectrum of topics, from insider insights into the auto industry to discussions on tech innovations and beyond. Each episode, lasting approximately 8-10 minutes, will feature Saberola's engaging style and in-depth knowledge, making it a must-watch for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

NegoSentro Media's appointment of Saberola and the launch of the Kuya Mark podcast are strategic steps to enhance their Auto & Tech content, offering a fresh and engaging perspective to their audience. Stay tuned for the inaugural episode of Kuya Mark's video podcast, promising a unique blend of information, inspiration, and entertainment.

"I'm thrilled to join NegoSentro Media and launch the Kuya Mark podcast. It's a fantastic platform to share insights, engage with our audience, and discuss anything and everything about cars and the tech space." ~Mark Saberola, also known as "The Talyer Mentor"

Negosentro Media is a leading digital platform dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs and providing resources for business growth and development. With a strong commitment to fostering innovation, Negosentro Media offers relevant news, articles, and insights across various industries, including automotive and technology. Visit www.negosentro.com for more details.

Kuya Mark, also known as Mark Saberola, is a seasoned automotive industry professional who recently joined Negosentro Media as the Editor-in-Chief for their Auto & Tech website. Beyond his editorial role, Mark also serves as the General Manager and Franchisor at ValuePlus Auto Services, the founder of AutoServed, and the inspirational figure behind Talyer Mentor. Known for his unique blend of practical experience and leadership skills, Kuya Mark shares his knowledge and passion for cars and technology through engaging content, including his innovative video podcast series. As a mentor and subject matter expert, Kuya Mark is dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs and businesses succeed in the dynamic world of automotive and technology. Visit www.talyermentor.com and www.autoandtech.com for more details.

Subway® and Mayani support the call against malnutrition with #SubwayGivesPack

A global brand with a heart for the community. The leadership team of Subway^® Philippines and Mayani’s top management (top left to right: Kin Nonog, Chief Operating Officer; Lance Villanueva, Co-Founder/Chief of Fulfillment; bottom left to right: Jean Gagarino, Territory Manager; JT Solis, Co-Founder/Chief Executive Officer) signing their partnership agreement at Subway^® J12 Anabu II-D in Imus Cavite.

Malnutrition continues to become alarming in the Philippines, especially among marginalized indigenous groups. 30% of Filipino children face chronic malnutrition due to unequal access to nutritious food, resulting in cognitive delays and long-term health consequences.

With a goal to aid in alleviating malnutrition, multi-national restaurant chain Subway^® launched its #SubwayGivesPack campaign in partnership with Mayani, the fastest-growing farm-to-table platform in the Philippines.

Mayani directly sources locally-grown produce and catch from organized smallholder farmers and  fisherfolk across 6 regions in the archipelago, and provides them access to a sustainable market: from retail customers to top supermarket chains, international hotels, and restaurant groups. This partnership will strengthen Subway^®’s commitment to promoting a healthier lifestyle and save hundreds of children from hunger.

The campaign aims to provide Mayani’s Aeta farmers community in Zambales with 200 nutrition packs containing healthy food items, such as fresh vegetables. These will give them better access to proper nutrition and improve their well-being, especially the undernourished children.

“We’re beyond excited to welcome Subway^® into Mayani’s ecosystem of partners. It’s an important milestone for us to co-create change with a global brand and enable Subway^® to localize and deepen its positive impact among communities.” ~JT Solis, the Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer of Mayani, who led the structuring of the Partnership Deal

Subway^® recently celebrated its 26^th year in the Philippines on the back of a strong reception by the Filipino market for fresher alternatives than the traditional fast-food offers. The campaign started to roll-out already across all Subway stores in the country.

“Subway^® has come a long way since our first franchise, and it continues to expand to multiple areas in the country thanks to the efforts of our Franchisees, Sandwich Artists and our loyal guests.” ~Jean Gagarino, Subway^®’s Territory Manager

Subway^®’s #BetterForYou initiative is not just about giving healthier foods to customers; it also focuses on fostering a better community for Filipinos. And together, we can make a big difference for those in need.

For every bite of Subway^® Favorites Half and Half Footlong subs, you can make children smile and change people’s lives. Let’s always find happiness in helping others. Make the #BetterChoice for a cause today!

 

 

 

About Subway^® Restaurants
As one of the world’s largest quick service restaurant brands, Subway serves freshly made-to-order sandwiches, wraps, salads and bowls to millions of guests, across more than 100 countries in nearly 37,000 restaurants every day. Subway restaurants are owned and operated by Subway franchisees – a network that includes thousands of dedicated entrepreneurs and small business owners – who are committed to delivering the best guest experience possible in their local communities.

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