#LightTheWorld Giving Machines Touch Hearts in Davao and Cebu

The #LightTheWorld Giving Machines were recently launched in Davao City and Cebu, providing Filipinos in the Visayas and Mindanao regions a unique opportunity to help those in need starting this Christmas.

Elder Michael B. Strong, Second Counselor in the Philippines Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, presided over both events, held at Ayala Malls Abreezain Davao on November 14 and Robinsons Galleria Cebu on November 16.

“[The Giving Machines] reminds me of a wonderful phrase in the Book of Acts that describes the Savior. It said, 'He went about doing good.' And because of that, we feel delighted to [collaborate] with you in helping to improve the lives of so many others,” Elder Strong said.

“What a wonderful way to celebrate our discipleship of Jesus Christ than by following His example and serving others in this beautiful and wonderful way,” he added.

The Giving Machines are bright red vending machines with a twist: instead of buying an item for themselves, donors can select an item for beneficiaries, such as food or water kits, educational supplies, hygiene kits, and other essential resources.

In 2023, the Giving Machines collected over PHP 700,000 from more than 4,500 donors at locations in TriNoma, Ayala Center Cebu, and the Manila Philippines Administration Office of the Church in Quezon City. Additionally, the Church donated PHP 500,000 to each of the six charitable organizations, bringing the total nationwide donation to PHP 3.7 million.

This year, donations are expected to rise as Davao City becomes the third location in the Philippines to host the Giving Machines. At Ayala Malls Abreeza in Davao, over 100 people attended the invitation-only launch and press meet hosted by actors Jairus Aquino and Xia Vigor. Guests included City Councilors Hon. Temujin "Tek" Ocampo and Hon. Pilar Braga, members of the media, and social media influencers.

In Cebu City, the Giving Machines returned for the third consecutive year, receiving a warm welcome from Cebuanos. This year, the machines are in the Atrium level of Robinsons Galleria Cebu, a spot with higher foot traffic than previous locations.

President Paul V. Johnson, Sunday School General President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, attended the launch and press meet in Cebu. During a media interview, President Johnson, who is in the Philippines on a ministering visit, shared his thoughts about the initiative.

“I am so grateful to be in the Philippines during this Christmas season. It's great to be in a time when we focus on the Savior, the Light of the World. We are here at the Giving Machines, part of the Light the World approach, where people can come and put their money in the Giving Machine and make a donation to a great cause that will bless people's lives,” President Johnson said.

“One of the fantastic things for me is to have been in parts of the world and see what comes from the Giving Machines donations and to see the results of generous people like you who donate to bless other people's lives,” he added.

Each Giving Machine location joins with select charities to ensure donations have a meaningful local impact. In Davao, the charities include the Mabuhay Deseret Foundation, UNICEF Philippines, and Ateneo de Davao University. In Cebu, the machines support Cebu Caritas, Feed the Children, and UNICEF Philippines. In Manila, charities include Caritas Manila, HERO Foundation, and Alagang Kapatid Foundation.

One hundred percent of all proceeds go directly to the chosen charities, allowing participants to see exactly how their donations make a difference.

The Giving Machines will also return to Metro Manila starting November 23 at Ayala Malls TriNoma, joining the locations in Davao and Cebu. With all three sites remaining open until the end of the year, Filipinos nationwide have more opportunities to make a memorable activity to share the Spirit of Christmas this season.