SM Cares brings biggest mall-led coastal cleanup yet to 32 malls nationwide

International Coastal Cleanup 2026 set for September 19, with thousands of volunteers expected to join.

SM Cares is bringing its biggest mall-led coastal cleanup yet to 32 SM malls nationwide on September 19, bringing thousands of volunteers together for the International Coastal Cleanup 2026.

The scale is significant. Last year, more than 48,800 volunteers across 28 SM malls collected over 200,000 kilograms of trash. This year, the cleanup will expand to 32 malls across Metro Manila, Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, with SM By the BAY serving as the main event site for Manila Bay.

The amount of waste collected also shows why these activities can have a practical impact. Trash that stays out of waterways is less waste that can reach the sea, clog drainage systems or affect areas that communities rely on for food, livelihoods and tourism.

SM Cares has been participating in the International Coastal Cleanup since 2015. Earlier this year, its World Water Day and World Oceans Day activities brought together 9,453 volunteers across 16 malls, who collected and diverted 24,244 kilograms of trash.

The September 19 cleanup will take place at identified coastal areas and waterways near participating malls, giving residents and businesses a chance to take part in an effort that goes beyond simply talking about waste management.

Individual volunteers can register through the SM Malls Online app by locating the International Coastal Cleanup 2026 event and signing up.

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