Coca-Cola has announced it will be suspending all advertising in the Philippines and donating the advertising budget to relief efforts following the disastrous Typhoon Haiyan which hit earlier this month.
In addition to this, the beverages giant has also donated more than US$2.5 million in cash and in-kind contributions.
“We would like to express our deepest sympathies to those affected by this tragic disaster in the Philippines,” said Muhtar Kent, chairman and CEO at The Coca-Cola Company. “Our dedicated associates are on the ground offering assistance, and we are committed to helping the communities rebuild.”
Immediately after the storm hit, Coca-Cola Philippines and its bottling partner, Coca-Cola FEMSA Philippines, through the Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines, began donating water to the Philippines Red Cross, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Department of Social Welfare and Development.
Guillermo Aponte, president and general manager of Coca-Cola Philippines said "From day one, we have mobilized our system to provide water and resources to the survivors of the super typhoon. Immediately after the disaster, we worked with our partners, the Philippine Red Cross, the DSWD, and the AFP to be able to provide water to the affected areas.
“Our business is deeply rooted in these communities, therefore we will provide assistance during this time of need.”