Real acts of kindness
Journalists’ group cites outstanding CSR programs
Lives have changed because of an extraordinary opportunity to get free education and later, a job. From that single person, the living conditions of family members have been improved.
Community facilities have been upgraded with access to clean water, and awareness on the value of hygiene to prevent disease.
Farming towns have benefited from the rehabilitation of a river bank where a forest of fruit trees have stopped soil erosion and attracted birds.
People needing medical attention to treat disease have recuperated after a free surgery procedure which included medicines.
These are only some of the significant changes that corporate social responsibility has brought about, an initiative that has led corporations to establish links with their host communities, and, later with their neighbors.
An organization known as the Society of Philippine Motoring Journalists (SPMJ) recognizes these acts of kindness that flow from CSR programs of automotive manufacturers and distributors. Since 2017, SPMJ has recognized 48 outstanding CSR projects with the “Driven To Serve Awards” – under the categories of Education and Training, Road Safety, Community Development, and the Environment.
SPMJ said that each of the CSR programs spoke of compassion for those who have less in life. “They are real acts of kindness to people in communities where
the company will not likely make a sale.”
The “Driven To Serve Award” aims to encourage companies to continue their CSR programs so that more people and wider communities can benefit from it. Through the awards, SPMJ also aims to inspire more corporations in the automotive industry to put up CSR programs.
SPMJ, founded by Rey Butch Gamboa of STV, is composed of motoring journalists active in print, broadcast and digital media.