SM Davao promotes book reading

Last July 17, SM City Davao along with 43 SM malls across the country and 4 malls in China advocated for book reading among children.
SM Cares through its Committee on Youth and Children’s Welfare has been observing the National Children’s Book Reading Day for the past 3 years. This year’s celebration was supported by the Department of Education (DepEd), the National Book Development Board (NBDB), Vibal Publications, National Bookstore, SM Foundation Inc., BDO Foundation, and Jollibee. The event was participated in by kids from Circular Homes and Euro Asia.
“25 years ago, when SM opened its first Mall to the public (at North EDSA), we were given an opportunity to help improve the quality of life of the community surrounding us.  Today, the SM Supermalls have become home to more than 12,000 tenants, 25,000 SM employees, serving 3 million shoppers daily, nationwide. And we have grown because our customers and partners have allowed us to grow with you. Truly, the SM Malls have now grown beyond shopping, beyond entertainment, and leisure. It is now about taking affirmative action in our social responsibilities.  It is now, about taking initiatives to be instrumental in caring for children, the best way we can. It is now about, how SM gives back,” says Engr. Nick Santos, SM Davao assistant mall manager.
Dr. Rovic Cuasito and BDO Foundation volunteers were the readers for the activity. Also in attendance were City Librarian Norafe Alajar and Department of Education Regional Supervisor II Carmencita Diamante.
“Kudos to SM City Davao for their efforts to instill in our young Davaoeños love for reading through this National Book Reading Campaign. This is in line with ‘Magbasa Ta’ project in the local government which extends our literacy program to far-flung communities through story-telling in barangays,” City Librarian Norafe Alajar reads in behalf of the city mayor.
Apart from the very entertaining story-telling session, games and mascot interaction, SIR Elementary School and Kabacan Elementary School also received children’s books from SM Foundation during the activity.