SM Foundation Inc. has intensified its COVID-19 response in Bulacan province by distributing 11,467 relief goods to the hard-hit members of the public transport sector.
Jeepney, tricycle and UV Express drivers whose work have been affected by the pandemic received the relief goods or “kalinga packs” through the SM Bulacan Malls in Marilao, Baliwag, Pulilan, and San Jose Del Monte. These ‘kalinga’ packs contain 5 kilos of rice and other food essentials all packed in an eco-bag.
Recipients in Marilao were Marsajoda, Malolos- Nlex, PBM (Pulilan-Baliuag-Meyc), Prenzajoda, BOAT Cooperative, Royal Friends, Sta. Maria MarJoda, Nomar Transport, Dau Transport, Heritage Transport, SM IbayoToda, DM. Trespicos, and LLIPStoda.
For Baliwag, Salida Joda, BPBTC (Baliwag-Dau route), Baliwag Federation Joda UV Express Coop and Pagala/ Rambol Toda are the recipients of kalinga packs. While Pulilan beneficiaries are Calumpit-Pulilan Joda, SCESMM Toda and NSPC toda (Sto. Cristo Route).
Apart from the transport sector, marginalized communities in Bulacan were likewise prioritized during the relief distribution. These communities are the sectors hardest hit by the pandemic as recommended by the DSWD.
The kalinga packs distribution effort is a part of Operation Tulong Express (OPTE), a social program of SM Foundation in collaboration with SM Supermalls and SM Markets. It aims to address the needs of communities during calamities and crisis. Its implementation includes close coordination with SM City Mall Administration employees and volunteers.