SM’s Operation Tulong Express Delivers Relief to Brgy. 27 Fire Survivors

Families displaced by the Barangay 27 fire that destroyed more than 200 homes earlier this month received food assistance on September 25 through SM Foundation’s Operation Tulong Express (OPTE) program.

A total of 256 families temporarily housed at Apolinario Mabini Elementary School were given SM Kalinga Packs containing rice, canned goods, and other food essentials. The initiative was carried out in partnership with the Bacolod City Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD) and implemented with the help of SM City Bacolod volunteers.

SM City Bacolod assistant mall manager Lorenzo Benedicto, who led the volunteers, said the activity reflected SM Group’s commitment to its host communities. “Relief may not directly rebuild homes, but it can ease the burden of families still reeling from the fire,” he said.

May Castro, public relations manager of SM City Bacolod, added that OPTE is the foundation’s way of ensuring immediate relief whenever disasters strike. “Beyond giving supplies, this program shows our care and solidarity with those affected,” she said. The fire on September 12 displaced nearly 900 residents.* (SMF)