SMEC donates air conditioning unit and computers to Young Focus Philippines

In a significant boost to the educational resources for underprivileged children, SMEC has donated one air conditioning unit and six computers to Young Focus, a non-profit organisation in the Philippines dedicated to alleviating poverty through education. The donation ceremony was held at the SMEC office in Manila, with key representatives from both organisations in attendance.

The SMEC CSR team in the Philippines, led by Ferdinand Lucero, SEA & Pacific CSR Secretariat, and Marie Josephine Marfa, CSR Representative Philippines, spearheaded the initiative. They were joined by Larry M. Pastrana, SMEC Philippines President, to officially hand over the donation to Young Focus representatives Karen Dechavez, Assistant Director, and Rameses Banzuela, Career Development Program Manager.

“Education is the most effective way to tackle poverty,” said Ferdinand during the turnover ceremony. “By providing these essential tools, we hope to empower the children at Young Focus to achieve their full potential and break the cycle of poverty.”

Young Focus has been operating in the Philippines since 2008, focusing on the Smokey Mountain area of Manila, where thousands of families rely on the informal garbage industry for their livelihood. With an average family income of just AUD7.50 per day, the organisation’s work is vital in providing educational opportunities and personal support to these marginalised communities.

Karen expressed her gratitude for the donation, highlighting its immediate impact. “The air conditioning unit and computers will be placed in our Sandigan Student Center. They will greatly enhance our Elementary, High School and College Education programs, as well as our Catch-Up Education program, which prepares our students for future academic success.”

Young Focus operates five core programs aimed at comprehensive educational and personal development. The donated computers will be utilised primarily in the Sandigan Student Center, which houses computer rooms and libraries, essential for the effective delivery of these educational programs.

SMEC’s contribution is a testament to its commitment to corporate social responsibility and its belief in the power of education to transform lives. The partnership with Young Focus demonstrates a shared vision of empowering the next generation to create their own paths out of poverty.

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Philippines

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SMEC Foundation

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