In the aftermath of the devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Mindanao, hundreds of families in Purok Balite, Barangay Lagao continue to face the difficult journey of recovery and rebuilding. Responding to the urgent needs of affected communities, SM Foundation Inc. (SMFI), SM Cares, and Uniqlo, through SM City General Santos, delivered immediate relief and support to residents through Operation Tulong Express (OPTE).

Over 500,000 worth of relief assistance, including Kalinga food packs and essential drinking water, was distributed to 821 families in Purok Balite, one of the communities most affected by the earthquake. For many recipients, the assistance represented more than food and water it became a source of comfort, hope, and reassurance that they were not alone during one of the most challenging times of their lives.

The relief operation brought together volunteers from SM City General Santos, the General Santos City Police Office (PNP-GSCPO), the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), the General Santos City Local Government Unit (LGU), and Barangay Lagao health workers. United by a shared commitment to serve, they worked side by side to ensure that aid reached affected families swiftly and efficiently.

Beyond addressing immediate needs, the initiative became a powerful expression of solidarity and compassion. As communities struggled with damaged homes, disrupted livelihoods, and uncertainty about the future, the relief effort offered not only practical support but also renewed hope and encouragement.

The collaborative effort reflected the enduring Filipino spirit of bayanihan, with volunteers from both the public and private sectors coming together to help families begin their recovery. Their dedication provided comfort and reassurance, reminding residents that an entire community stood beside them in their time of need.

“Disasters can leave communities vulnerable, but they also highlight the resilience of human compassion,” said Debbie Sy/Executive Director ofSM Foundation Inc. “Through our continuing relief efforts under SM Cares, we see how every act of kindness—no matter how simple—helps restore hope and reminds families that they are not alone, with a community standing firmly beside them.”

The initiative also earned the appreciation of local government officials and beneficiaries who witnessed firsthand the impact of the relief efforts.

On behalf of the City Mayor and the Local Government Unit of General Santos, Atty. Nikki Catolico, Executive Assistant to the City Mayor for City Social Welfare and Development, expressed gratitude for the assistance extended to affected communities.

“Daghang salamat, SM Foundation, for standing with General Santos City when it matters most,” Catolico said.

For residents like Dominga Blando of Purok Balite, the support provided much-needed comfort and reassurance during a difficult time.

“Daghang salamat, SM! Salamat sa hinabang. Ang inyo mall isa sa mga apektado sa linog pero ania mo naga tabang sa katawhan,” Blando shared as she received her Kalinga Pack.

Operation Tulong Express (OPTE), the disaster response program of SM Foundation and SM Cares, continues to provide immediate assistance to communities affected by natural calamities across the country. Through partnerships with private organizations, government agencies, and local volunteers, the initiative delivers timely relief while helping strengthen the resilience of disaster-stricken communities.

As Purok Balite takes steps toward healing and recovery, the collective efforts of SM Foundation, SM Cares, Uniqlo, government partners, health workers, and community volunteers stand as a testament to what can be achieved when compassion is transformed into action. Their commitment reminds us that even in the darkest moments, hope can be restored through kindness, unity, and the willingness to help one another rise again.

Because when communities come together, recovery becomes more than rebuilding structures it becomes rebuilding lives, restoring hope, and creating a stronger future for all.

SM Cares, through Operation Tulong Express in collaboration with the Philippine Red Cross, also successfully mobilized a donation drive to support affected families and communities in General Santos City.

The initiative encouraged the public to contribute through designated donation channels and cash donation booths in participating SM Supermalls nationwide. The donation drive has since concluded, reflecting the generosity and compassion of countless individuals who chose to help communities recover and rebuild.

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About SM Cares

As the Corporate Social Responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, SM Cares is focused on enriching the lives of Filipinos through socially-conscious and environmentally-responsible programs meant to Empower Communities into long-lasting, impactful improvement.