By CESAR JOLITO III
Bacolod City has added a new tradition to its holiday landscape as it hosts its first-ever #LightTheWorld Giving Machines — a unique, globally recognized initiative that turns simple acts of generosity into life-changing assistance for those in need.
Launched on December 4, at the 2nd Level of Robinsons Place Bacolod, the Giving Machines mark Bacolod’s entry into a growing circle of Philippine cities — Manila, Cebu and Davao — participating in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints’ annual #LightTheWorld Christmas campaign.
This year’s theme, “Experience His Light,” invites Negrenses to rediscover the spirit of the season through direct, tangible acts of service.
Tradition of giving goes local
The Giving Machines are no ordinary vending machines.
Instead of snacks or drinks, they dispense charitable donations — food packs, school supplies, medical kits, and specialized assistance for children and families in need.
A hundred percent of every purchase goes directly to the partner charities, with no administrative fees, as the Church shoulders operating and promotional costs.
For Bacolod’s inaugural year, donations will support three local organizations:
* USLS Bahay Pag-asa Youth Center — assisting vulnerable and at-risk youth
* Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital — helping children with urgent medical needs
* Kalipay Negrense Foundation — supporting abused, abandoned and neglected children
These partners represent communities whose lives can be profoundly changed by even the simplest holiday gift.
A global movement with local impact
The Philippines has embraced the Giving Machines since 2018, recording remarkable participation in 2024 alone:
* 6,305 Filipino donors
* P750,000 donated by the public
* Plus P500,000 each given by the Church to participating charities
Worldwide, the Giving Machines have raised over US$50 million, helping thousands across continents.
The 2025 rollout expands the reach further in Manila, Cebu and Davao.
All sites will feature items chosen by their respective local charities, ensuring each donation fits the real needs of the communities served.
Giving made simple, meaningful and instant
Donors can choose from items such as food and water packs, medical kits and vaccines, vision therapy and health treatments, educational supplies, support for military orphans, temporary shelter needs, and other essentials curated by partner organizations.
Donations may be made through cash or e-payment, making giving accessible for families, students and even young first-time donors.
Each machine is operated by volunteers — community members who dedicate their time to helping others experience the joy of giving.
Rooted in service
The #LightTheWorld campaign encourages people to follow the example of Jesus Christ, the Light of the World, by serving others during the season.
The Giving Machines bring that message to life — offering an easy, uplifting and heartfelt way to make a difference.
With Bacolod now part of this global movement, Negrenses can celebrate Christmas not just with lights, music and gatherings, but with an enduring act of kindness that reaches far beyond the holiday season.
As the city lights up for the holidays, the Giving Machines invite everyone to experience His light — one small act of love at a time./CJ, WDJ