San Miguel Corporation’s Extensive Aid to Disaster Victims Exceeds P3 Billion

San Miguel Corporation (SMC), a major player in the Philippines’ food, drinks, power, and infrastructure sectors, has demonstrated a decade-long commitment to aiding victims of natural disasters. Since the devastation of typhoons Sendong and Yolanda, SMC has focused on providing housing to affected families. Collaborating with organizations like Gawad Kalinga and Habitat for Humanity, SMC has contributed to building homes and communities in various parts of the country, including Iligan City, Cagayan de Oro, Bukidnon, Negros Oriental, Davao, Surigao, and Bohol.

Since 2013, SMC has invested over P3 billion in these initiatives, emphasizing that housing is a fundamental need for Filipinos. SMC President and CEO Ramon Ang, recognized in Forbes Asia’s Heroes of Philanthropy list, emphasizes the importance of supporting the family unit as a foundation for nation-building.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, SMC shifted its focus towards holistic community development. The housing community in Sariaya, Quezon, serves as a prime example of this shift, featuring disaster-resilient and eco-friendly homes. This community includes a multi-purpose center, covered court, livelihood center, e-library, fishermen’s wharf, and a public market run by residents. SMC’s initiatives also encompass training programs in entrepreneurship, personal finance, food processing, farming, and other income-generating activities, aiming to equip beneficiaries for long-term success.

Ramon Ang highlights the importance of creating a sense of community and providing a supportive network as crucial for the long-term success of those aided by SMC. This philosophy led to the launch of SMC’s flagship social development program, the SMC Better World Community Centers. These centers are dedicated to advancing comprehensive community development and embody SMC’s commitment to sustainable social progress.