• RICHARD T. CABALLERO JR.
Three foundations in Negros Occidental have been selected as beneficiaries of the first-ever Gift Giving Machines in Bacolod City, launched by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at Robinsons Place on December 4.
This year’s Giving Machines, now in its seventh year in the Philippines under the theme “Experience His Light,” will operate until January 5, 2026.
All donations collected will benefit the USLS Bahay Pag-asa Youth Center, the Corazon L. Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital, and the Kalipay Negrense Foundation. These organizations focus on supporting vulnerable youth, children facing medical challenges, and survivors of abuse or neglect.
The machines function like vending machines, allowing donors to contribute a minimum of P50 in exchange for a card that represents their intended donation—such as school supplies, slippers, or other essentials.
This initiative invites Negrenses to participate in simple, direct acts of service that can bless families in need, including vulnerable children across the country.
The Church said that the donation process is designed to be accessible and effortless, just like purchasing from a vending machine. However, instead of snacks and drinks, the Giving Machines offer various donation options—ranging from providing shelter and necessities, supporting patients unable to afford medical care, and to funding the rehabilitation of children in conflict with the law.
“The Church’s support for the Giving Machines reflects its broader mission to care for the poor, strengthen families, and help individuals become spiritually and temporally self-reliant. One hundred percent of every donation goes directly to the designated charity partner,” Elder Chi Hong Wong, First Counselor of the Philippine Area Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, emphasizing the significance of the initiative during a press conference.
Since it started in the Philippines in 2018, the church has seen strong community engagement with the Giving Machines. In 2024 alone, 6,305 donors contributed P750,000 to various charitable causes.
The Church further amplified these efforts by donating an additional P500,000 to each participating charity organization. Globally, the Giving Machines have raised over USD50 million and have helped thousands of individuals worldwide.
Previous launch events took place in Manila, Cebu, and Davao, highlighting the widespread reach and impact of this charitable initiative.*
