THE Swiss Embassy in Manila formally launched “Angels for Angels: A Christmas Solidarity Action” for the benefit of the Negrense Volunteers for Change Foundation and the International Bazaar Foundation.
From November 21 onward, Christmas angels made from up-cycled materials will be sold at the Glorietta 2 Concierge, with proceeds supporting programs of the two foundations. The day prior saw the Christmas Tree lighting in the mall, on the occasion of World Children’s Day.
Ambassador Alain Gaschen said the date was chosen as a reminder that the “little angels” and their well-being would be the main focus of the project.
Guests were able to witness the Christmas tree fully lit for the first time during the event. With a lighted angel on top, the tree will be a fixture at Glorietta 2 symbolic of the action. Gaschen explained it will remain dark, but will slowly regain its light as more angels are sold until the angel on top shines bright as well.
“We wish to provide some light after everything the Filipino people experienced this year,” the envoy stated. “Switzerland has always stood in solidarity with the people of the Philippines. [Our] government has, on various occasions, provided aid to [survivors] of natural disasters, and now supports the efforts of the Philippine Red Cross through the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies for [those affected by Supertyphoons] Rolly and Ulysses…”
Gaschen is optimistic of the solidarity action and the resultant change it can bring to the lives of its beneficiaries. The embassy and its partners Glorietta and Greenbelt Malls, Novateur Coffee Concepts Inc., Olympia Violago Power and Brushstroke Creatives invite everyone to be an angel for their little counterparts through this effort.
The Christmas angels, to be sold at P100, are made by up-cycling used Nespresso capsules—a symbol of Swiss innovation and sustainability. Aside from the Glorietta 2 concierge, online orders can be made through manila@eda.admin.ch.