Alagang Kabayan: How BDO and SM transform the lives of Overseas Filipino families through the years

　　For millions of Overseas Filipinos (OFs)， the holidays often mean sacrificing precious moments with loved ones to provide for their families. But through BDO and SM Supermalls’ Pamaskong Handog initiative, the distance between families is bridged, turning heartfelt wishes into cherished holiday memories。

Join Piolo Pascual, Small Laude, MC, Lassy, and Donita Nose for a heartwarming Christmas celebration with BDO at SM City Tuguegarao on December 7, SM City Roxas on December 14, and SM City General Santos on December 21.

A heartwarming moment as Jackylou Taboada, a cancer survivor and a Filipino worker in Dubai, receives a special surprise at BDO's Pamaskong Handog event last year at SM City Cebu。

　　A mother’s battle

　　For Jackylou Taboada, a loyal BDO customer for over a decade, her journey as a Filipino worker in Dubai has been filled with trials and triumphs. Diagnosed with Stage 2B Carcinoma in 2016, Jackylou faced her biggest challenge yet, enduring treatment far from her family while keeping her illness a secret.  

　　“When I became cancer-free, my only wish was to spend Christmas with my daughter. Material things don’t matter; being with her is enough,” she shared.  

　　In 2023, during the Pamaskong Handog event in SM City Cebu, Jackylou’s wish came true. Her daughter, Shyla, received a free flight to Dubai just in time for the holidays. On top of that, Shyla was gifted a laptop for her studies and a ₱10,000 shopping spree at the SM Store. For Jackylou, this act of generosity turned her dream into a reality, bringing her closer to her daughter when it mattered most。

　　Overseas worker Maria Theresa Yasuki (middle)， the first client to remit to the Philippines through BDO Remit Japan office, is honored with a 'thank you' gift and brought back to the Philippines last year by BDO and SM Supermalls after 22 years。

　　A mother’s homecoming  

　　After more than two decades of working in Japan, Ma. Theresa Yasuki has spent more Christmases away from her family than she can count. Despite the longing, her dedication to providing for her child and grandchildren pushed her to keep going.  

　　“Problems never run out, but BDO has always been there for me. When I faced financial difficulties in 2021, I applied for a BDO Credit Card. I was so grateful when I got approved and received a Platinum card. BDO has been my support system through tough times,” she shared。

　　Theresa dreamed of spending even one Christmas at home with her loved ones. In 2023, during the Pamaskong Handog event in SM City Fairview, BDO and SM made her dream come true.  

　　“This is the happiest Christmas we’ve ever had,” said her son, John Reimar Tagle Juliano. “We were finally able to celebrate the holidays together after being apart for more than 20 years。”  

　　The spirit of Alagang Kabayan lives on

　　The stories of Jackylou and Ma. Theresa are just two examples of how the Pamaskong Handog initiative has touched the lives of countless OF and their families. This year, SM and BDO will continue their tradition of giving back to them and their families through the much-anticipated Pamaskong Handog, happening in three SM Supermalls: SM City Tuguegarao on December 7, SM City Roxas on December 14, and SM City General Santos on December 21. 

　　Whether it’s a heartfelt reunion, a financial boost, or simply the opportunity to feel remembered and valued, BDO and SM’s commitment to its clients underscores the essence of Alagang Kabayan。

　　Be part of the joy and love this holiday season! To learn more about Pamaskong Handog and how you can join the celebrations, visit https://www.bdo.com.ph/personal/remittance/promos-and-events/pamaskong-handog-2024 or follow BDO Kabayan Facebook page. 

　　You can also check out www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media to know more about the Merriest Christmas events happening at your favorite SM mall.