SM Foundation Inc., the social good arm of the SM group, and the Fast Retailing Foundation (FR Foundation), a foundation incorporated in Japan, formally launched the “Grow Trees Community” project in Nasugbu, Batangas last September 27 as the first stop of three provinces for their “treescaping” and reforestation initiative.

The Grow Trees Community project aims to plant and grow trees across the Philippines while helping create livelihood opportunities by working closely with the people’s organizations in the communities. The project also joins hands with Costa del Hamilo Inc., Manila Southcoast Development Inc. and the local government of Nasugbu.

“The core of our program is to go beyond planting trees. It also addresses the social and economic needs of communities by providing them with the means to engage in agroforestry. With this in mind, we want to build a strong foundation to keep growing communities by fostering collaboration and leadership in caring for the environment,” said Cristie Angeles, SM Foundation assistant vice president for livelihood.