SM Cares, in partnership with Proctor & Gamble and Safeguard, has recently launched its #SafeHandsAtSM campaign in its first virtual media conference powered by Zoom.

The partnership is part of SM’s programs to ensure safe malling as all SM malls continue to carry out strict safety and sanitation measures to assure the community that the malls are safe, clean, and compliant with health and sanitation protocols over and above government regulations.

The #SafeHandsAtSM campaign, according to SM Supermalls President Steven Tan, is an initiative to raise awareness on the importance of practicing proper hygiene by promoting a simpler wat of handwashing through Safeguard’s 5 Steps of Handwashing.

“As part of our safe malling commitment, handwashing is our first line of defense against illnesses and is also crucial during a global health crisis. We very excited to partner with Procter & Gamble’s Safeguard, the leading brand in health and personal care, to raise awareness on the importance of this matter,” Tan said.

The 5 Steps of Handwashing involves washing the (1) palms; (2) back of hand; (3) in between fingers; (4) fingernails; (5) and thumbs; and keep scrubbing for at least 20 seconds. Afterward, rinse and dry your hands thoroughly.

“Through #SafeHandsAtSM, we want to influence the handwashing habits of the Filipino people by encouraging them to adopt the healthy 5-step ritual and join us in promoting clean hands especially during this time,” Tan said.

As part of the #SafeHandsAtSM campaign, Safeguard has made its liquid hand soap available in restrooms of all SM malls across the country. SM, on the other hand, will promote safe handwashing through an educational campaign teaching the public the 5 Steps of Handwashing.

Information materials are also deployed in restrooms and high-traffic areas in all 74 SM malls.

“In our 54-year history, we have always been an advocate of health and wellness. Safeguard has always been a partner of public and private sectors, especially stepping up in the times of need,” Procter & Gamble Vice President for Skin and Personal Care Shweta Sharma said.

“Safeguard realizes the importance of helping create a safe new home by making our products more accessible with the help of partners like SM, we are reaching one step closer towards our vision of a safe Philippines,” she added.