Last May 26, I attended something truly inspiring—the Generation HOPE launch at Samsung Hall, SM Aura. And honestly, it gave me a whole new perspective on how simple everyday choices can help solve something as big as our country’s classroom shortage.
It wasn’t just an event—it was a movement. HOPE, the organization behind those bottled waters that help build schools, teamed up with the Department of Education and some of the Philippines’ most loved brands—BDO, Carmen’s Best, Grab, Penshoppe, Aivee Clinic, SM Supermalls, and Sunnies—to launch Generation HOPE.
The mission? To make it easier for people like you and me to help build real classrooms for Filipino kids—just by doing the things we already do every day. Shopping, eating ice cream, ordering online, using rewards points—yes, even those can help now.
What struck me the most was something HOPE Founder Nanette Medved-Po said on stage:
"In a world that’s so divided, let’s come together for something we all believe in: giving kids a better future through education."
And I saw that unity firsthand—government leaders, brand partners, educators, and everyday Filipinos, all standing together for one goal.
Here’s how you can be part of it too:
Use BDO’s new “HOPE in Every Spend” credit card—part of your spending goes directly to building classrooms.
Try Carmen’s Best Hope in a Scoop and Hope in a Pint (delicious and impactful!).
Donate GrabRewards points through the app.
Grab a limited-edition Aivee x HOPE bag or skin card.
Shop Penshoppe’s HOPE-themed clothes and accessories.
Buy SM-branded water bottles—part of sales will help fund schools.
Pick up Sunnies’ new HOPE lens kit or flask.
Each of these brands found their own creative way to let YOU give hope with every purchase. And every single peso adds up to something powerful: real classrooms, for real kids, in real communities that need them.
So yes—I was there. I saw it start.
But this is our movement now. You don’t need to be at an event to take part. All you have to do is choose HOPE in your everyday life.
Want to see how you can help? Visit www.generationhope.ph
Follow along at facebook.com/generationhope.ph or on IG @generationhope.ph
