IN A shining example of community spirit and corporate citizenship, SM CDO Downtown Premier and SM City CDO Uptown joined forces for Brigada Eskwela 2025, breathing new life into the Misamis Oriental General Comprehensive High School (MOGCHS) in preparation for the upcoming school year.
With sleeves rolled up and hearts full of purpose, employee-volunteers led by Mall Managers Lovelle See and Mell Sagales worked side by side to repaint worn-out chairs, repair broken windows, and clean up classrooms—transforming them into vibrant, safe, and inspiring spaces where students can learn and thrive.
“This is more than just physical preparation,” said See. “It’s a manifestation of SM’s deep commitment to community development and education through genuine volunteerism.”
The activity was met with heartfelt gratitude from the school community.
“We are very happy that our school has been chosen as a recipient of the Brigada Eskwela program of SM Cares,” shared Ms. Ethel Ludevese, a class adviser at MOGCHS. “We felt the love and support through the many volunteers who came to help. It’s not just the services rendered, but the connection and commitment that truly touched our hearts.”
Despite the heavy rains the day before, the spirit of Bayanihan prevailed.
Teacher Karen Jo Lupeba added, “This endeavor made us feel honored. Our students won’t need to do the preparations themselves. They will walk into bright, clean, and welcoming classrooms on the first day of school.”
This annual outreach aligns with the Department of Education’s Brigada Eskwela program, which this year carries the theme, “Nagkakaisa para sa Handa at Ligtas na Balik-Eskwela.” It underscores the power of collective action in building not only better schools but stronger, more resilient communities.
The initiative is part of SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, and is driven by the company’s employee volunteerism program under its HR Department. The program stands as a testament to the company’s long-standing dedication to social good, education, and inclusive community engagement.
SM Malls have been an instrumental partner in the community especially with the members of the Cagayan de Oro Press Club for providing venue in its weekly event, Meet the Press. (Text and photos via Carlston Maglangit/SM Public Relations Manager)
