LEGAZPI CITY, Albay – At least 500 underprivileged children, mostly from remote barangays in this province, have received Christmas gifts from SM City-Legazpi, other private partners, and government agencies.
Claire Hariri, public relations officer of SM City-Legazpi, said that since the "Bear of Joy" was launched this year in time for the holidays, at least 500 kids have received a teddy bear for a gift.
Hariri added that they have partnered with various private and government agencies to add more gifts such as groceries, other toys, and even medical and dental services.
On Dec. 28, the popular mall, together with the Kapisanan ng mga Broadcaster sa Pilipinas (KBP)-Albay, Diocese of Ligao City, and other private companies, went to Barangay Paulba – an upland barangay in Ligao City.
More than 100 poor kids were given teddy bears, roceries, and other toys.
"We have already exceeded to our target. This year, our theme is focused to the importance of family," Hariri said.
She said that children of fishermen, farmers, and other unprivileged sectors were among beneficiaries of the project.