Songs about the gift of giving

Krista Garcia

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If you must still brave the malls in the coming days, make sure to donate to those in need
   

MANILA, Philippines –– Christmas is just two weeks away, and with the onset of cooler nights comes the chaotic flurry of people who troop to the malls to tick off each item on their gift lists. During this time, it’s not uncommon to hear complaints about the traffic, long lines, or the daunting task of finding that perfect gift without exceeding a budget. But we cannot imagine the holidays without the tradition of sharing and giving.

And in spite of the bright displays all over the city, the prevalent mood is somber, because of recent calamities such as Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan). 

If you must still brave the malls in the coming days, make sure to take the opportunity to give and donate to those in need. Take Ayala Malls, for example, that have dedicated all their holiday activities for the benefit of Bulig Bisaya, a campaign that aims to restore basic necessities and provide safer shelter for those affected by Yolanda.

It’s not too late to turn your shopping into a greater act of generosity.

THE GIFT OF GIVING. Shop while you help. Photo by Adrianna Mejia

For the past weeks, Ayala Malls, Inc. has been holding a series of public silent auctions for select home and fashion pieces. Aside from the proceeds going straight to Yolanda’s victims, participants were also able to donate P500 by simply providing their thumbprint on a pledge board. The next auction will be held in Trinoma, Quezon City, on December 16.

STARS OF JOY, STARS OF HOPE. Celebrities sing about giving and sharing. Photo by Krista Garcia

Ayala Malls also provided entertainment to those who need a break from the strenuous task of walking and toting shopping bags. Last December 8, the latest leg of Stars of Joy, Stars of Hope was staged at Market! Market! in Taguig. Sam Concepcion, Iya Villania, and Sam Milby lit up the stage with songs, and the STEPS dance group rendered two interpretative performances. Donation boxes were set up around the concert venue. The next concert will be on December 13 at 7 pm at the Alabang Town Center.

THE GIFT OF MUSIC. Audie Gemora brings a stellar performance to the Trinoma Activity Center. Photo by Krista Garcia

Audie Gemora, the show’s director, shared how they transformed a musical tradition into an opportunity for sharing. “Originally, we were really gonna celebrate the 25th anniversary of Ayala Malls. But because of what happened to Yolanda, we made it more a message of hope. It’s more about giving and in context to these talents — what they have to give is their talent.”

IMAGINE. Sam Milby entertains the crowd. Photo by Krista Garcia 

“This Christmas, it’s not an obligation, but iba yung feeling [the feeling is different] that you get when you give,” said Sam Milby.

All Ayala Malls continue to accept in-kind donations at the concierge. Clothes, blankets, towels, medicines, and hygiene kits are still needed.

Let’s continue the tradition of giving while extending it to help others as well. – Rappler.com

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