SM and DENR partner to save critically endangered Philippine species

SM Supermalls has teamed up with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and some of the nation’s most respected organizations, each with expertise in wildlife conservation, to protect six critically-endangered animals found in the Philippines. The campaign — launched in partnership with Kultura, Banco De Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO), World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Forest Foundation Philippines (FFP), Zoological Society of London (ZSL), D’Aboville Foundation (DAF), Philippine Eagle Conservation Program Foundation (PEF), and KATALA Foundation — aims to raise both awareness and funds to safeguard these species and the communities that depend on them.

The DENR and SM Supermalls are working with the following organizations for the conservation of these species:

• The Dugong, a gentle marine mammal often seen in the waters surrounding the Philippines, and the Philippine Turtle, including several endangered sea turtle species, are supported by Kabang Kalikasan ng Pilipinas Foundation Inc. (KKPFI)/WWF-PH;
• The Philippine Cockatoo, also known as the red-vented cockatoo and native to the country’s forests, is protected by the KATALA Foundation;
• The Philippine Eagle, the country’s national bird known for its majestic size and critically low population, is conserved by the Philippine Eagle Foundation; and
• The Tamaraw, a dwarf buffalo found only on the island of Mindoro, is looked after by the D’Aboville Foundation (DAF), and;
• The Pangolin, a critically endangered scaly mammal from Palawan, is championed by the Zoological Society of London (ZSL).

As part of the “Save From Extinction” campaign, SM Supermalls will provide key platforms to promote awareness through posters, videos, and fund-raising booths in its malls. Participating malls include SM City North EDSA, SM Megamall, SM Makati, SM Aura, and SM Mall of Asia, starting Oct. 18. These booths will feature exclusive merchandise from Kultura, with proceeds supporting conservation efforts.

Kultura’s merchandise lineup includes t-shirt designs for both adults and children in several colors, with each product highlighting one of the six endangered animals. Canvas tote bags featuring the animals are also available for purchase.