SM Cares' Annual Event for Senior Citizens: "Pamaskong Handog para sa Senior Citizens"

SM Cares held its successful annual gift-giving event for senior citizens last December 8, bringing them happiness and uplifting their spirits during the holiday season. 

Last December 8, SM held its Pamaskong Handog Para sa Senior Citizens event at the Skydome in SM North EDSA, Quezon City. Pamaskong Handog Para sa Senior Citizens is a recurring event held by SM to honor senior citizens. Our seniors hold a special place not only in our operations, but also in our hearts, and this event serves as a venue for us to thank our seniors for their dedication to and love for their country and families. The event encompassed a memorable afternoon of musical entertainment and gift-giving. In attendance were senior citizens from various communities around the metropolis; SM and SM Cares organizers and representatives including Danilo Chavez, SM Cares Senior Citizens Program Director, who delivered an inspirational talk; and special guests and friends such as noted civic leaders Mila Magsaysay of SAMAKANA and Filipino Muslim luminary Ibrahim Albani, who offered a very special Christmas message of friendship and solidarity. To the delight of the seniors, the wide range of entertainers taking center stage included Edgar Opida, the “Elvis Presley of the Philippines”; Inger Sta. Maria, the “Tom Jones of the Philippines”; Margie Bueno, who belted out Timi Yuro and Connie Francis hits; and the Jackstone Brothers. But the seniors were not to be outdone, as selected groups came up with their own dance numbers and wowed the crowd too. A wide range of gifts were also given out; a raffle was held; and food and drinks were supplied as well. This year’s Pamaskong Handog Para sa Senior Citizens was capped by a dance party that was enthusiastically participated in by the seniors. We continue to explore ways to engage our senior citizens; recognize their contributions to society and achievements; and, by doing so, show our appreciation and love for them. #SMCares #SupportingCommunities

A photo posted by SM Cares (@officialsmcares) on Dec 9, 2015 at 11:58pm PST

Dubbed as "Pamaskong Handog para sa Senior Citizens", the event featured musical entertainment by both star performers and the seniors themselves, who showcased their talents in the program. 

The event also incorporated inspirational talks and messages of solidarity. 

The Pamaskong Handog is a recurring event spearheaded by SM Cares to honor senior citizens. SM holds senior citizens in high esteem "not only in its operations but also in its heart". 

Aside from this annual event, SM shows its concern for senior citizens through other activities and a wide range of special services such as the following: 

- As shoppers, senior citizens are given courtesy mall lanes which are especially reserved for them. 

-As precious members of the society, free health classes during Seniors day are provided. Senior citizens can also avail of free computer literacy sessions 

-As part-time workers, seniors are given casual employment as greeters and ushers in SM malls nationwide. With all of these services and activities geared to benefit senior citizens, SM Cares hopes to contribute in making the life of the elderly, easier and more enjoyable.

The members of the senior citizens truly enjoyed the event and will surely looking forward for the next events that SM always have for them.