Championing Environmental Conservation and Local Development Through Thoughtful Initiatives
In an unwavering commitment to social responsibility, PLDT, Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), and the PLDT-Smart Foundation (PSF) are spearheading a sustainable gifting movement in Visayas and Mindanao. With a focus on environmental conservation and community development, these initiatives aim to create stronger, greener, and more connected communities for a promising future.
Empowering Communities with #PlantSmart Kits
PLDT and Smart are taking substantial steps to empower communities with sustainable practices. The distribution of #PlantSmart kits is a notable initiative, providing beneficiaries across Visayas with easy-to-grow seeds, loam soil, and organic fertilizers. Designed to be user-friendly, these kits encourage communities, regardless of gardening experience, to adopt sustainable practices.
To further enhance sustainability, select beneficiaries are receiving rain barrels for storing rainwater, preventing flooding during torrential rains. This practice not only conserves water resources but also minimizes runoff and mitigates soil erosion. Noteworthy beneficiaries include Borongan City, Municipality of Cordova, University of Cebu Main, Banilad, and Maritime Education and Training Center campuses, DepEd Cebu City Division, and Sipaway Ecotourism Workers Association in Negros Occidental.
Boosting Livelihood and Tourism with Boat Donations
PSF is contributing to the livelihood and tourism sectors by donating non-motorized boats to the Palina Greenbelt Ecopark in Roxas City. Apart from stimulating the local economy, these boats promote environmental sustainability by minimizing pollution and reducing the environmental impact associated with traditional gasoline-powered boats. In addition, 100 life vests and Smart pocket WiFi devices with load have been provided to ensure the safety and connectivity of Palina’s tourism workers and visitors.
Illuminating Siargao Island with Solar-Powered Street Lamps
In Siargao Island, PLDT and Smart are illuminating the way to recovery. Donation of solar-powered street lamps to the Local Government of General Luna, particularly along the Catangnan Bridge, aims to enhance safety for both residents and tourists. This initiative, catalyzed by the aftermath of Super Typhoon Odette in 2021, is expected to boost tourism and catalyze economic activities on the island.
Aligning with Sustainable Development Goals
These commendable initiatives align with the Group's commitment to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a particular focus on SDG No. 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. By fostering sustainability, PLDT, Smart, and PSF are not only providing tangible support to the communities they serve but are also actively contributing to the broader global goals of creating a more sustainable and interconnected world.
The PLDT Group's advocacy for sustainable gifting goes beyond mere technology, reflecting a deep-seated commitment to fostering positive change in Visayas and Mindanao. Through these thoughtful initiatives, the Group is sowing the seeds of a brighter and more sustainable future for all.