MANILA, PHILIPPINES – SM Supermalls, in partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation Inc. (PRRCFI), is launching a video ad in line with its #AweSMSeas initiative, to carry the message of this year’s International Coastal Cleanup Day: “Ending the flow of trash at source”.
As public gatherings to conduct cleanups are challenging to organize due to community quarantines, the #AweSMSeas campaign is highlighting essential waste management at home and at work, with proper segregation and safe disposal as a basic practice, to reduce trash where produced and before trash ends up in our waterways, seas, and environment.
“The U.S. government through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) continues to work with our partners to address waste pollution even during the COVID-19 pandemic. We leverage extensive networks, expertise, and experience to improve waste management systems, plastic waste recycling and opportunities for reuse in key countries including the Philippines. Our approach promotes locally-led solutions and women’s economic empowerment, and engages the private sector in addressing the plastic waste challenge. We are excited to support our partners’ communication campaign initiatives on plastic waste recycling and proper waste management system,” said John Edgar, Environment Director of USAID Philippines Mission.
USAID is the lead U.S. government agency for international development and humanitarian efforts to save lives, reduce poverty, strengthen democratic governance and help people progress beyond assistance. Among USAID’s work, the organization addresses the world’s biggest environmental issues.
The video ad of the #AweSMSeas information, education and communication campaign will be shown at SM Supermalls’ LED screens, social media channels, and SM Cinemas and drive-in theaters. The 60-second video will premiere on September 19, 11:00 AM, via Facebook Live targeting the reach of SM Supermalls’ 4.7 million social media followers, encouraging responsible actions across diverse sectors to keep our awesome seas plastic-free.
“SM is very honored to partner with the USAID and the PRRCFI, and we hope that through our mall and digital assets, we will steer environmental consciousness among our stakeholders and the general public,” said Engr. Liza B. Silerio, SM Program Head on Environment and Sustainability.
Representatives from USAID, SM Supermalls, PRRCFI, and the video’s director, Carlo Ledesma, will speak in the livestream, broadcast with the event’s media partner Adobo Magazine, one of Asia’s leading resources for stories on brands and businesses.
The International Coastal Cleanup Day is held annually during the third Saturday of September to raise awareness on preventing trash, especially single-use plastic, from polluting beaches and marine ecosystems worldwide.
