SMC pledges assistance to families of soldiers killed in Marawi clash

SAN MIGUEL CORP. has pledged support for families of soldiers in the conflict in Marawi City, in terms of providing a business start-up package of up to P2 million for each family.

In a statement released on Sunday, SMC President and Chief Operating Officer Ramon S. Ang said they will take an active role in rebuilding affected communities in Marawi through the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

The diversified conglomerate said the business start- up package will help ensure that families of fallen soldiers will have a sustainable source of income for the long term.

The clashes between military forces and Islamic State- linked Maute terrorist group since May 23 has prompted the declaration of martial law in the entire Mindanao and its island groups. Ten soldiers died by friendly fire from military- enforced air strikes last June 1, apart from the 28 killed as of this reporting.

“The best way we can honor our fallen soldiers is to try and help their loved ones have a chance at a better future. For our part, San Miguel commits to provide their families the means to put up their own start- up businesses. We will assist them, and help their community recover sustainably,” Mr. Ang was quoted as saying in a statement.

The company will be finalizing the terms of the assistance package and rebuilding program for the affected communities through the San Miguel Foundation and the AFP.

“All of us Filipinos are in awe of the courage and heroism of our soldiers. Our soldiers deserve our deepest respect and gratitude. It’s very unfortunate that we have lost many of them in this conflict. We mourn with their families and the whole nation,” Mr. Ang said.