Thousands Join SM Cares' Coastal Cleanup

Over 5,000 volunteers joined the nationwide coastal cleanup led by SM Cares last June 7, in celebration of World Oceans Day 2025. SM Cares is the CSR arm of SM Supermalls, and along with the help of volunteers, was able to collectively removed an astounding 30,000kg of trash from the shorelines across the country.

Volunteers resonated deeply with- "WONDER: Sustaining What Sustains Us," this year's theme. Armed with gloves and sacks, the volunteers worked with a shared mission of protecting the oceans that sustains us. 

Beyond fostering community collaboration and promoting environmental responsibility, SM Cares' coastal cleanup initiative played a vital role in cultivating healthier environment, enhancing the overall quality of life for local residents and contributing to the long-term preservation of marine ecosystems.

"The oceans sustains us every day and now, it's our turn to give back," said Engr. Liza Silerio, SM Cares Program Director for the Environment. "This coastal cleanup isn't just a one-day event, it's a symbol of our shared duty to preserve biodiversity and inspire action for a sustainable future, while bringing lasting positive impacts to the community by advancing healthier coastal spaces and uniting people through shared environmental action."

This year's coastal cleanup drew a diverse wave of ocean defenders from students and teachers to LGUs, NGO partners, employees, and security and janitorial teams. SM Cares worked closely with LGUs, environmental organizations, youth groups and coastal barangays to stage cleanup across several major sites nationwide. 

These collaborations not only ensured the success of the initiative but also highlighted the power of inclusive, community-driven action. Volunteers gathered to remove tons of waste from shorelines, raise awareness about marine conservation and inspire long-term behavioral change toward environmental care. 

The June 7 cleanup is part of SM Cares' broader sustainability vision through its #SMWasteFreeFuture campaign, which also includes weekly cleanups at SM by the BAY.

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Last May 2025, SM employee-led cleanups have mobilized a total of 279 volunteers, collecting over 4,493kg of waste- highlighting their firm commitment to keeping our coasts clean on a weekly basis. These sustained efforts contributed to creating a safer, more enjoyable coastal spaces for customers, while encouraging a stronger culture of environmental volunteerism. 

SM Cares' Coastal Cleanup also supports and aligns with several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), most notable SDG 14: Life Below Water, by directly reducing marine pollution and protecting ocean ecosystems. It also contributes to SDG 13: Climate Action, by raising environmental awareness and promoting community-led climate resilience, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, through its collaboration with LGUs, NGOs, schools and communities.

There are two more major coastal cleanups on the pipeline for SM Cares this year and it aims to inspire more Filipinos to take action, one shoreline at a time.