Market Manila T-Shirts For Christmas 2007

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I was simply stunned and overwhelmed by the reader response to this earlier post on Marketmanila t-shirts. It isn’t often I get 160+ comments on a post so seemingly innocuous in nature. I was even more stunned when Lee, a regular reader and commenter from Bacolod, sent these totally unsolicited and amazingly cool t-shirt designs. I asked Lee for permission to post these graphics and I must say, I thank him profusely for taking the time to come up with these original designs. A wonderful graphics artist, Lee went so far to assure me they are not simply clip art drawings but actually original designs… I am truly amazed… At any rate, what is the hubbub about? I figured I should give you all an early, possibly premature heads up to better gauge the potential reader response. Everyone assumes I am selling shirts, which I am not…so here is the plan or intention…

Every Christmas Marketman & family typically sponsor donations to schools, usually in the form of hundreds of books for libraries, and/or we facilitate gingerbread and candy or food donations to children’s wards of hospitals or we donate to more established children’s charities or to environmental causes. But we can only do so much as an individual family. In the past, I have asked for reader participation only in the form of comments, which in turn translate into more books, more money or more trees, etc. that are donated. This year I want to do a little more. So here is the beginnings of a plan…

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The Intended Beneficiaries

Grade School Children in a City Public School(s), probably ages 4-10, who are recognized as being malnourished or undernourished, and who are chosen to participate in the school’s feeding program. The intention of the program is to improve their caloric and vitamin intake and to get them to a more healthy weight. The by-product is that they will hopefully do better in school. And the lure of a meal(s) will also attract them to attend class. There are several feeding programs in place and I already have a particular school in mind, but details have not been hammered out with school administrators so I cannot name the school until the program is certain. And I agree this is a stop-gap measure, not a permanent solution, but I still think it is a wonderful and concrete gesture if a shirt means 17-20 meals for hungry kids.

How will it work?

For every PHP500 that readers “donate” directly to the feeding program, Marketman will give the reader a free t-shirt (possibly one of two or three final designs), choice based on availability on a first come and first serve basis only. The PHP 500 donation will go directly to the feeding program, and Marketman will not retain ANY of this money. In other words, FULLY 100% of the gift or donation will end up with the malnourished kids. I estimate that each meal will cost roughly PHP25-30, so a PHP500 donation (or one t-shirt) will in effect feed 17-20 kids. Marketman will shoulder the full cost of the t-shirt and will treat this as his “gift” to you and in effect, to the feeding program, along with coordinating this effort. Donations will be collected at one or two Metro Manila sites in November (probably Makati and Mandaluyong, and maybe Cebu City) over a period of say 2-3 days only. Unless the schools can mobilize earlier, I suspect the feeding programs will occur in January and February 2008. No donations by mail, cheque, etc. can or will be accepted. Readers abroad will have to ask relatives in Manila to go to designated pick-up sites. Please understand I cannot manage the hairy logistics otherwise. This is already a major effort for me as described.

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The Magnitude of this Effort

Initially, I was prepared to sponsor up to 300 limited edition and otherwise impossible to acquire Marketmanila t-shirts, which in turn would result in PHP150,000 in donations to the public school feeding program, or as many as 6,000! meals. Marketman would give away 300 shirts, in effect, my donation would amount to roughly 36,000 or about PHP120 per shirt. Unfortunately, that means a pretty modest quality shirt, but hey, it’s the hungry kids that we are really thinking about… However, based on the reaction so far, Marketman has upped the ante, and is willing to print up to 500 shirts if readers out there are really interested in helping. This would mean as much as PHP250,000 in money for a feeding program (or several programs) or as many as 10,000! meals.

Why is this worth the effort and hopefully, your time and money?

What is Christmas if not ultimately the spirit of giving. And as a group of people interested in food, how can we collectively do something good, and yet, not bust the bank? I think this is potentially a very good thing. You give PHP500, which in turn will provide 17-20 basic meals for undernourished children, Marketman gives you a limited edition t-shirt in return, valued at PHP100-120, totally free, Marketman gets a teeny weeny bit of publicity from the website address printed on the back of your t-shirt, but I make no money whatsover from the process or my website and as many as 10,000 meals will be provided for students who need it most.

What do you think?

So what do you think? Is this a looney idea? Are there enough of you who want shirts? Wouldn’t this make a great Christmas present? What I need to know NOW is a rough number of shirts that I might need to print. If you are interested, please leave your comment here, and a rough estimate of the number of shirts you might sponsor. I realize this is a preliminary call, and I will not hold you to the number if you don’t like the final sayings on the shirts or any other reason. I have not decided on the final design of 2 or 3 different shirts. This is just an estimate. But I will give preference to those who indicate their interest early if it turns out that the t-shirts are spoken for like hotcakes. Then again, maybe only a dozen readers will think this is a worthwhile endeavor. Let the comments begin…

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Marketman

Marketman is a well-traveled management consultant who loves buying, cooking and eating good food. Read more »

297 Responses

  1. Can you pls time the collection of donations a few days past paydays so that the finances can be managed or scheduled. Tshirt is an added bonus but I really would like to give to this project.

  2. count me in. this is a great idea! always looking for ways to share the christmas spirit. 3 shirts, please. i’m assuming free size?

  4. Count me in.. I usually give my tithe to a community that helps funds an orphanage for the poor elderly people, but since it’s going to be Christmas soon, I could definitely accommodate another..

  6. wahhh i have no relatives in manila or cebu!!! I want a shirt too!

    Hopefully I can find a friend who will be in Manila that time.

  7. Please count me in too. Maybe we could do this as yearly project for Christmas or some other ways to help people in need out there.

  9. Please count me in…T-shirt or no T-shirt, I would gladly support you on your feeding program. Hoping your pick up day shall fall on weekends….

    regards.

  10. thanks for the feature :) the suki graphic is still a work in progress. i intend to add more produce to surround the oval logo… what else to add?? help?

  11. Count me in! Suki is very Pinoy and very true to the essence of this site… but then arketmaniac is also cool, the more hip version. But both are great! Let’s feed more kids! :)

  14. hey MM! i’d gladly get 2 of those shirts…notepads would be cool too. hehe. or like small shirts for our kids. fantastic idea! maybe this can be a MM tradition every xmas? would be great if you date the shirts, for example, xmas 07?

  15. sign me up! a cause like this is worth all of our time.. oh and if you need help during the actual feeding activity, i can lend a hand as well =)

  16. Hi MM

    Definitely count me in – you asked about the number of shirts we might sponsor, about 3 from me. I wish it could be more….

    I missed the blog with suggestions for t-shirt design (and I lke Suki) – how about ‘Blog until Tender’ or ‘Market Manila – no extra seasoning required’. Apologies if they have already been suggested.

    Good work fella!

  17. I will get one, extra small (adult size). Suggestion: open a bank account preferably with a bank that has many branches. That way those of us in QC do not need to go all the way to Makati or Mandaluyong. Thanks

  18. I’m in MM! This is a great idea.

    My mom also has a plant store near Lung Center should you need a pick up point in QC. She also has a regular booth at the Lung Center Sunday market.

  19. I’ll take one!

    Opening a BPI bank account may be a good idea to for accepting donations. It’s surprising how many legit brick + mortar businesses facilitate payments this way; make payment over the counter, and fax the deposit slip somewhere — I’d expect the bookkeeping wouldn’t be any more difficult than what you’d have to do to take in funds from 2 actual locations in November. You’d have to make a fax number publicly available though (or ask people to email you a scan or the deposit slip).

  21. I would like to donate to your cause (in memory of my mom.. August 21, 2007) this Christmas for the underpriviledged.

    Arriving in Manila on Nov 4th and departing on Nov 15th. Preferrably, I’d like to drop off my donation in Makati location i.e.. StarBucks, the day before my departure.

    Can you send me a private email for further details?

  25. 2 shirts for me!

    How about establishing a Paypal account for contributions of those who live in the US?

  28. I agree with wysgal. It would be easier for those outside Manila to send their donations, shirt or no shirt because this a very good project and we are sure that the proceeds would really go to the feeding of the kids.

  29. I would want to order two shirts. If you need help manning the booth for the pick-up center, please do let me know too :).

  33. YES! What a good idea! Put me in for 2 shirts pls. One for me and another for hubby Kulas. Let me know the time and place of collection.

    Wysgal is correct, you may want to open an account and it will be easier.

    You may also want to do feeding sometime mid-year. Kids always get treats on Christmas but forgotten the rest of the year. Plan on this and I would bet you’d also get a lot or response – with or without t-shirts.

  35. Next Christmas (or could be this Christmas along with the shirt), you should give out canvas tote bags to be used for actual marketing / grocery shopping! I think this is uso now in the States… Bring Your Own Bag… You can have your logo on it + Lee’s designs as well. Let’s lessen the millions / billions of plastic bags clogging up our world!

  36. Saw “SUKI” and it made me smile. It’s perfect. Good job, Lee! What a wonderful idea, MM. Would appreciate your opening an acct for this project — my mum lives outside of Manila so this would be helpful.

    I’m thinking that this would be a great Christmas present for people who are difficult to shop for. Make a donation in their honor and they get the shirt plus maybe a little card explaining the feeding project? What do you think?

  37. That’s amazingly stylish Lee and to MarketMan can they (the charities) be persuaded to open paypal accounts to simplify donations from abroad?

  38. count me in! I agree with marie, canvas tote bags is a great idea! I think its more apt than a shirt and is very useful too. That way, we can help in the feeding program and also promote saving the environment.

  39. this is another superb idea MM! i don’t think your fans would care even if you just gave them used rags which you’ve autographed. people would still be just as inspired and enthusiastic to give. i pledge 2k mm, and i’ll be happy with one shirt (and extra happy with 2 of different designs–but no pressure on you).

    thanks! and i rarely say this because it sounds so trite, but now seems most auspicious– god bless you and your family for your kindness!

  40. A couple of T shirts, a no-plastic bag and voila! a green charitable outfit for all seasons. Make P500. the minimum suggested donation, do not turn down bigger voluntary contributions, after all, you are not selling the shirts. The shirt is merely a token acknowledgement of a donation.
    See if Io can put together a Marketman foundation, so you can legally accept donations by check.

  41. Count me in! The opportunity to help feed our less fortunate countrymen plus a cool shirt, definitely something to look forward to this holiday season.

  43. I’ll get 3-4 shirts, hopefully of different designs :) Several canvas tote bags (you decide the price, even PHP 500 is ok as it is for a good cause) is a wonderful idea! I bring my own bags to the market/grocery all the time. I can give the shirt inside the bags. But even if it’s only the shirts available I’d still pledge! Will it come in free size? ladies’ baby tee? :) The designs are great, the reason for the project, even better. Kudos for spreading the spirit of sharing and goodwill this early into the holidays.

  44. sali ako… “suki” yata rin ako… 2 shirts po. please let me know in advance the date and exact place of collection.. i will only send my cousin… wish i could be there to assist po… :(

  45. Count me in too.

    And do accept deposits for those who’d want to donate and not get the shirt.

    Love both Lee’s designs but I feel the marketmaniac one would look better with your site’s basket logo.

  46. Was away for 10 days for holiday and your website was the first I checked upon arrival!

    Oh yes count me in – 5 shirts for me please.

  49. Great idea,MM! =) and i love the idea of the shopping bag too. i agree with sister, minimum donation is Php500, but welcome bigger donations from others who would want to do so =) Good luck! and love the Suki design Lee =)

  50. Hi MM! I signed up for 1 shirt earlier. But after reading the later posts, I realize now that the canvas tote bag idea is way better. My vote goes to the SUKI design but with your trademark basket of produce on the upper right edge of the oval (instead of the scattered aubergine, chili, fish, and mango), and your URL on the back. The message is succinct and apt; the item functional and chic at the same time. So if given a choice, MM, tote bag for me. Once again, bank account or Paypal please. Thanks.

  51. Hi, MM! It’s been a while. I resigned from my work so I had no access to the Internet for a month or so. Anyway, even if I don’t celebrate “Christmas” like Catholics do, please count me in! More blessings to come your way!

  52. i want a shirt!! :D please tell us when the feeding outreach will be.. i’d like to volunteer! my friends want to come along too… college seniors want to do something good this xmas! :D

  54. MM, count me in for 2 tees but I would prefer the canvas tote bags. They are a useful green alternative and One Size Fits All! With the shirts, what a headache to get the sizing right.

  57. BTW, I missed the canvas tote bags, if there is, I’d GET 1 TOTE BAG in ADDITION to the 2 shirts I earlier posted. tnx

  58. Hi, Marketman! It’s my first time to actually drop a note even though I’ve been reading and enjoying your site. I can’t live without it! Anyway, this prompted me to leave a message. And yes, I am so willing to help out regardless of the shirt. But what a great bonus for doing good. I’ll have to tell my family in Manila to help out, too.

  60. I would be willing to donate more or even bid for the t shirt. suggest you also consider just selling the shirts and donate profits to the cause. this way if the program goes bonkers,(shirts in the thousands) you can manage the costs to you while bieng able to maximise potential. Im willing to help MM best regards.

  61. Lee, some green things like maybe avocadoes, cabbage, ampalaya, etc. Oranges for color and different colored capsicum/s.

    MM, please count me in for 2. Thanks!

  62. what a joyful idea! and perfect timing to blog about this because my friend who brought your yummy mag present for me is going home for good this Sat. i could send the money thru him but i’d hate for him to go all the way to Manila just to drop off the donation so i hope there’ll be a more efficient way.

    gosh, i hope i can catch him before he takes off. will let you know if it’s a go.

    lee, your design is cool!

  66. I’m getting one t-shirt. PS. Can you have some in women’s sizes so I can actually wear it (when I do my groceries, hehehe)?

  68. What a great idea…I really like canvas tote suggestion though. Shades of Anya Hindmarch’s super sold out “I’m not a plastic bag” bag…

  69. I also like a shirt and if possible a tote bag like
    Anya Hindmarch “Im Not A Plastic Bag”.And if you need a place/pick up point, I may volunteer to have my space somewhere in the Ortigas Business District for your project. You may freely use it if you are interested.

  71. Marketman, please count our support. My family is very much willing to help you with this endeavour and we will all be very proud to wear T-shirts.

  74. If its too much trouble for you to establish a bank account or paypal account (there is probably paperwork involved to prove to the tax authorities that this was a charitable project and not a for-profit venture)– maybe suggest to the school that they set up a bank account or paypal account specifically for this project.

  75. Hi Marketman! Count me in… We did a feeding program before for a school that targeted streetchildren and it would really be nice to contribute to something similar… Imagine, 10,000 meals/kids. Hopefully it inspires them to stay in school.

  77. count me in.. good thing I am in Cebu, just post where is the pick-up point.

    let us help feed the children….

  78. I want one and willing to pay the Php500 (or more). It’s for a really good cause and Php 500 is nothing really compared to the effort on your part.

  80. please think of a way that your readers abroad can contribute to this excellent idea. a dollar account for this specific project?

  82. Great idea MM! I really hope you’ll be able to figure out the logistics so marketmaniacs abroad can contribute too.

    Nice design Lee! How about adding easily recognizable (and more indigenous) fruits/veggies like atis, calamansi, guayabano plus crabs/mussels?

  83. I am in too. A shirt would be nice, but I will donate either way. Paypal sounds good to me too.

    Thanks and way to go!!!

  84. Be more than happy to help little (or big) kids have a few square meals BUT I DO NOT NEED ANY T-SHIRTS! Please throw mine back into the pool to re-cycle for other donators who want them.

    Question: How do out-of-the-country folks get their donations to you?

    Regards,
    Chi

  86. The suggestion on having an account that people can make payment or transfer funds to sounds a great idea — especially for people like us who live abroad. But yeah, I’d go with whatever works easily and less logistically challenging for you.

    That would be 2 XXLarge shirts for me, tenkyouberimats.

    I’m curious as to whether we can have our own custom captions on the shirt though (it’s a stretch, I know, hehe … i just got to try).

    Anyway, I really like to have my shirt say “What the heck is budbud kabog?” in front and the basic “marketmanila.com” in the back — all in bold black letters. I think it’s a great caption to make people curious about your site, imo.

  87. Great designs Lee! I would also like to donate … better if there is a way to send a check or via PayPal. Hopefully, my trip in November will push through … or will ask a cousin. No need for the t-shirt even though they are so nice. But, if you decide to also make tote bags, I would love to have one.

  88. Can I have 3 XL shirts please. How do I send my payment? I ‘m here in LA and I can send a Western Union money order address to whom?. Tote bag is nice too as long as it is biodegradable.

  90. Put me in for 3 if you have a
    cebu pick up point. I have relatives in Cebu. If not, I can pay with paypal even without the shirt. Thanks for the chance to participate, MM.

  91. Hello Market Man! I would love to donate to this worthy cause. However, since I’m here in the states, can you please tell what would be the best form of receiving the payment? I’m sure I’ll be able to get other “donations” from my friends and family here. You are truly a remarkable individual! Take care! :-)

  93. Count me in! 2 shirts for me. We could try to do this every year??! I love the idea of a tote bag too – maybe for next year? And maybe opening up a paypal account as suggested?

    This blog has certainly become one big family with the love of food as its anchor. Kudos to MM and kudos to all for making this blog such a success!!

  96. will help and will order 2 for now =)
    for those who have blogs, maybe we can set a day (a week, a month) to help promote it? (if needed)

  98. Hi, MM!

    I would definitely want a t-shirt! ^_^

    Regarding Paypal — while the service is finally available in the Philippines, we can only accept payments but not cash out. (And the fees are a bit painful)

    Gcash is the easiest, I think and fastest. (Cash-out fee is 10% of the total amount). Bank deposits would be good too (BDO would be the most convenient because they offer banking even during the weekend). ^_^

    I’d want a canvas bag as well! ^_^

    – Khristine, Iloilo City

  99. give love give give give…. another xmas charity post that will bring tears…looks like a bright christmas for the needy children underway ;-)

  100. count me in, MM. two for me, please. and if you need a helping hand just let me know (although i know you have more than enough). it’s for a very good cause kasi so i’d like to give not only money but also my time. merry christmas to all!

  101. 2 shirts and 4 canvas tote bags. More if you can get it done in time for Christmas Shopping or have different designs!! I’d rather spend my money for gifts with you then at the mall. Great idea. If you need Manila based people to roll up their sleeves and help out then count me in.

  102. Me again – Really like Lee’s Suki. MM please do kids sizes as well. If you do that I’ll add another 3 shirts to my order (kids size – especially the suki one :)

  103. HI EVERYONE. THE REASON I CANNOT TAKE DIRECT DONATIONS IS TAX RELATED. THE DONATIONS MUST IN EFFECT GO DIRECTLY TO THE SCHOOL, EVEN IF I COORDINATE THE COLLECTION. WILL SEE ABOUT FOREIGN BASED MONEY, BUT I CANNOT LEGALLY SET UP A PAYPAL ACCOUNT IN THE U.S., NOR TAKE DONATIONS INTO MY PERSONAL ACCOUNT, THAT IS MESSY. I CANNOT SET UP A FOUNDATION THAT IS TAX FREE IN THE PHILIPPINES IN TIME AND THE REQUIREMENTS ARE INCREDIBLE (I KNOW, I DID IT FOR A SCHOOL THAT I USED TO SIT ON THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES). ACTUALLY, PHILIPPINE LAWS DO NOT MAKE IT EASY TO GIVE TO CHARITABLE CAUSES BECAUSE OF ABUSES IN THE SYSTEM. GIFTS OF A SMALL AMOUNT ARE NOT TAX LIABLE IN THE PHILIPPINES, HENCE EACH OF YOU GIVING DIRECTLY TO THE BENEFICIARY IS THE ONLY PROPER WAY TO GO. I AM OVERWHELMED BY YOUR RESPONSE IN JUST A FEW HOURS TIME, BUT PLEASE UNDERSTAND I HAVE TO MAKE THIS WORK LOGISTICALLY. I WILL LOOK INTO TOTE BAGS AS WELL… MEANWHILE, KEEP THE COMMENTS COMING, BEST I CAN FIGURE WE HAVE ROUGHLY 130-150 SHIRTS RESERVED! MANY THANKS, YOU ARE A FABULOUS BUNCH OF MARKETMANIACS! :)

  106. hi MM! would love to help you out with or without the shirt (bonus na lang yun, hehehehe). and the tote bag sounds nice, too.

    by the way, i work at DepED Central Office so in case you need help, just tell me.

  108. Hello. Love it. I would love to get a few tshirts (6-12) and some tote bags(24-36). Maybe a few dozen in all. I will give them out as Christmas gifts with market manila inspired creations from my own kitchen. I will email you seperately by tommorrow to confirm the exact number into your planning /production. Also, I would like to inquire if we could sell some at my daughter’s school Christmas shop? The parents would love them and we try to incorporate into the mix (minimum of 50%) products that directly benefit a charity.

  110. I’ll ante up for the equivalent of four tshirts.

    By the way, since I noticed people also offering their time, wouldn’t it be a nice eyeball opportunity if we pitched in on the feeding program? We could all wear the tshirts, prepare and feed the kids. Whaddaya think? or is that too corny for words?

  115. Opening a bank account would expedite the collection process and the accounting itself. I am doing this for my collections.

    I will take one shirt. :p

    Seems everyone is excited now. :p

  117. What about Marketmaniac for shirts and Suki for tote bag? Ok, I know this sounds aggressive but do you think for a few Saturdays before the Holidays, Salcedo market( and possibly a few others of your choice) might allow you to sell your shirts/totes?

  118. Sali ako dyan!
    Where and how do I send the one thousand pesos donation/payment? (for 2 size L tshirts…)
    2 colors lang kaya? black and white? :-)

    This is so exciting! You just made my day, Thanks MM!

  119. wonderful idea. the shirt is a bonus. to be part of a worthwhile endeavor is reward enough. would love to participate. the makati collection site should be accessible. thanks!

  120. MM, count me in! I would willingly donate to this charitable cause. I am also gearing towards getting probably both a white and a black shirt. Definitely, I would be a part of this.

  123. THANKS TO MARKETMAN AND LEE FOR THE IDEA. T SHIRT, TOTE BAG OR APRON WILL DO.VERY NICE IDEA!!!

    GOD BLESS US ALL FOR THE THINGS WE DO WITH OPEN ARMS, WITH LOVE AND COMPASSION.

    THANK YOU SO MUCH TO OUR FELLOW MARKETMANILA BLOGGERS AND FELLOW OFW FOR SHARING HELP. I WISH I AM HOME IN DECEMBER TO SHARE MY HELP BUT I’M WORKING.

  125. Hello MM, I just make my reservation for 1 t-shirt yesterday,…puwede pahabol ang make it 2 pcs…since I want to share your wonderful blog to my favorite niece also.

    thanks.

  126. Hello all, I have been a lurker on this site for a while now and its bookmarked on my view everyday list, I am actually going home to Manila on the 1st of Nov and will be there until the 13th — just an offer – i have a paypal account and i would be happy to accept for you and withdraw it in Manila and hand it to you personally or deposit it in your account. MM, I would be happy to tell you who i am, where i live, and since manila is all about connections – you can call my mom too! For my donation to the cause, if the shirts are in envelopes already i can bring the back with me and pay to ship them to your US and canada readers. That being said – either way, put me down for 2 shirts!

  127. I wish for a nice Marketmania/Suki tote bag kasi my complimentary tote bag from 7-11 is in rags :-)! Just tell me where to send the donation and I can ask one of my sisters to go there! The feeding program is such a marvelous idea because a lot of children here (according to one of our wards) go to school only because they can “snitch” from the baons of their classmates! Unbelievable but true!

  128. hi MM, this is my first post because I want to be counted in! if you can have the tote bag, i’m getting one too. i’ve been visiting your site almost everyday after finding this about three months ago. i’ve learned a lot so far and even had tried some of the recipes featured here. keep it up MM!

  131. As everyone has already said, this is a great idea and God bless you for coming up with it :) Count me in too!

  132. MarketMan,

    I think we could do 2 batches of this charity work. We could run this shirt thing the soonest, and we could have another one around November, just in time for the Anniversary of MarketManila..

    What do you think??

  134. You should print, stitch or even patch those designs on canvas, katsa or even burlap tote bags similar to the “I’m not a plastic bag” of Anya Hindmarch. This way, sizes aren’t an issue, you help cut down on the use of plastic bags for the sake of the environment, it has something to do with markets, conceptually, and it’s just plain sensible. Since one can use it daily (vs a t-shirt) you get more use out of it and merchandising wise, that means more visibility. Just my 2 cents’ worth.

  135. great idea! 3 shirts for me pls :) tote bag and apron too.
    the distribution of shirts/ feeding day would also be a nice opportunity for the next eyeball.

  136. I’m a regular reader although this is only my second post. I’ve always enjoyed the exchange and feels so much part of this “family”.

    Would love to have 2 shirts please. Will this come in ladies’ baby tees?. A tote bag for me, too! What about kids’ sizes?

    If you need help to man the booths, will be willing to assist in any way possible. =)

    A Joyous Christmas to all, indeed!

  140. Great idea MM! Count me in!!! =) if you need any assistance in the logistics department, let me know. I would be happy to be of help=)

  141. congrats on a very noble cause!
    2-XXL shirts for me please – black and white.
    i go Gina’s recommendation to have the MM trademark on the upper edge of the oval design instead of the scattered fruits/produce.

  142. You are crazy good, MM! And Lee, that design is superb! Whatever you do, please do not fail to include those of us in far away lands. Remember, this is about the kids, not the bag or the Tshirt! Think dollars, Euros, Pounds, Yen, or whatever! It’s for the kids!
    Anxiously awaiting further directives!

  145. Baka maubusan ako! Count me in for 2 shirts…and if you need a helping hand, count me in as well! God bless you and your family for this effort and for giving us a chance to help out too.

  147. count me in, dear MM! and oh yes, the black tee, please, thank you.

    by the way, it is nearly a year since the second EB. are there any plans to hold the third one any time soon?

  148. Hi…I’m a regular reader as well but this will be my first foray to actually publicly comment in a blog. Your Christmas project is just too irresistible. Please count me in for 1K. If you will make babies’ sizes, I can make it 1.5k (2 adults, 1 baby). What the heck, make it PHP1.5K…the shirts don’t matter, but I do like the designs. I like the idea of the market bags as well. Bought the one from Healthy Options but not from Rustan’s (it’s too expensive vs. Healthy Options). I hope you make this a yearly effort. :) I wish you more successes.

  153. count me in MM. Will get 2 adults and 2 kids size (if available).

    should you need help in logistics, count me in also.

    a eyeball meeting to map out the logistics endeavour of this cause is a great idea!

  154. MM, someone mentioned the Salcedo Market as a pickup point — I know that dry goods other than stuff related to food cannot be sold there, but will ask if a one time exception is possible. A table for one day is only Php550.

    You might have better luck at the Sunday Legaspi Market which allows the sale of practically anything. Because it is a smaller market, It is also much less crowded there, and parking is easier.

  155. If you can open a PNB account where I can send money then count me in. The suki design with your URL would be nice.

  156. Myra, I do know the manager of Salcedo, so I will ask if I can have a pick up point there. Others, the bank account issue is quite complicated, as it must be set up in the name of beneficiary school(s) but I cannot control if all the money then goes to the feeding program, hence I am trying to be very careful and safe, for everyone’s peace of mind… I also want no tax complications… will consult my lawyers for assistance…

  158. Hello MarketMan, its me again…
    I agree with hchie. mas maganda siguro kung andun din yung trade mark mong basket saka yung mangosteen.

    Wait, wala yung mangosteen sa tabi ng chillies!
    Oo nga, nawawala yung mangosteen…!

  159. MM,
    …you gotta reserve one for me also..
    reusable canvass tote bag idea is also cool and timely…something we can bring to the grocery without picking up another extra plastic bag..will make Al Gore happy

    MarketFan

  161. MM,
    I’m from San Francisco and would be happy to donate to this program directly. Your endorsement is good enough for me to know that the money will go directly to the kids in need. Just post the details. Your T-Shirts look great but donating and helping these kids is more than enough fulfillment our end here in the US. We are so lucky, its time to give back.
    KP

  162. Hi MarketMan, 2 shirts for me please and 1 tote bag, if you push through with it. I like the idea suggested above of “marketmaniac” for the T-shirts and “suki” for the tote bag. Thank you for coming up with this brilliant idea and providing us the opportuntity to help feed the chidren. Btw, do we get a receipt so that the donation can be tax deductible? ;)

    Oh wait…I have a suggestion for the marketmaniac design. In place of the sili, can you put mangosteen or mangoes or durian instead? The sili is just too identified with Mexican cooking. It would be nicer to have something that is more Filipino or at least Southeast Asian in nature.

  164. This is indeed a great idea, and judging from the huge response, it will be a tremendous success! I’ve always believed that there are many out there who are ready, willing, and able to help the less fortunate. All that is needed is a worthy cause, a trustworthy champion (MM) and an easy method of donation.

    By the way, Melody, you mentioned above that you are with the DepEd. There are 15-20 kids in our area who we help support by giving them money for pamasahe to go to school. We give them P10 a day each. This should be more than enough for their transportation to & from school (P4 each way). Unfortunately, they are only able to use the money to get to school, then have to walk back. The rest of the money goes to their teachers’ “trays”. I’ve heard stories about students being forced to buy snacks from their teachers but I can’t believe it is still happening. One student said her teacher wouldn’t allow her to go to the bathroom because she couldn’t afford to buy from the tray. Some students started hiding their money in their shoes but the teachers soon found out and now they check the kids’ shoes! Can you tell us who can we contact to report this? I cringe at the thought that the funds we have solicited from our good friends and family are going into the pockets of the teachers and the kids we are supporting have to walk several kilometers to get home.

  167. ayy, i want to join too. hope u can do the tote bag as well. you’re doing such a good and wonderful job, MM.

  168. that’s a great idea–i love the bag idea too. it can be even used for shopping/grocery instead of plastic bags (anya hindmarch’s “i am not a plastic bag” kinda thing)

  169. Pebs – that sounds so sad!

    MM – If I can find a way to donate (through friends that may visit Manila in December), I will definitely be onboard.

  171. I agree with those who said to open up a bank account – preferably with one that has an on-line facility. maybe you can set it up under the name of one of your businesses or under a relative’s name so your identity remains a secret :-) we can do on-line fund transfers to facilitate those who want to donate but are not in manila or in cebu :-)

  174. If you need volunteers, count me in! Plus some…

    MM is even consulting his lawyers!

    This is getting crazy!(Crazy in a fun way!)

    Can’t wait! =)

  176. 6 totes for me and to give away to friends and I’ll proudly carry it with me whilst I’m shopping here in Oz.I’ll just get a friend to pick these up for me.

    More power to you MM!

  185. plus 2 shirts for me and husband as well as 1 tote bag for food shopping. mm, it’s really a good idea to check things out with your lawyer. if this turns out to be bigger than expected, you may need certain permits from government agencies that regulate solicitation and donation activities like the dswd. i’m not so sure about this but it’s worth looking into because we don’t want our little project here to turn out bad eventually.

  187. Hi MM! This is my third suggestion: why don’t you run another poll on your home page so you have a running count of how many want t-shirts (include sizes–for adults, kids, and ladies baby tees; when you finalize the design you may also want to run another poll on 2-3 design options), how many want canvas totes, and I guess aprons as well. Also include people’s preferred mode of payment, just to give you an idea of what would be most convenient for most. But first you may want to pose the basic question: would you like to participate in Marketman’s Christmas feeding project?

  189. Hi Marketman! I like the design with the MARKETMANIAC but prefer it to be written MARKETMANiac, with the “iac” italicized. Some unsolicited suggestion from a marketman-maniac!!!

    You may also want to make aprons too.

    I will definitely buy a ton of these and send to my cousins who are MM fans in the States!!!

  193. ok make it 3 shirts for me and a tote bag :)…..easiest sa amin dito sa ireland eh thru western union, coz it only cost 10euro fee, whatever amount na ipadala (well up to 6K euro yata) ….hope you can consider it as well, give as a name and address to send and a mobile number so we can text pag napadala na….just a suggestion……..GOD BLESS!

  194. Hi MM!

    Three shirts and a tote bag for me, please.
    Lee, how about adding some dayap and bagnet in the Suki logo?

  196. Hi MarketMan,

    I’ve been a lurker in your site for quite awhile now (first site I visit every morning) and I couldn’t pass up this chance to help out. Please count me in for 2 shirts and a tote bag (very good idea since this actually will be more visible when we go to the market!). More power to you!

    Joan

  197. Hi, MM!

    Anything for a charitable cause by you! Count my wife and I in. Will also volunteer as a kitchen help for the program. Pls arrange a pick-up point for us QC residents… maybe at the Lung Center Sunday Market.

  198. that makes me so mad, Pebs. please do send me the details (what school, location, etc.) through email. i will see what i can do.

    sorry for being off topic MM. if it’s possible, could you have baby tees? so i can wear it even during ordinary days

  201. A tote bag and an apron for me please. Collection points are both out of my way though :-( But if Mandaluyong means MegaMall, then I can manage :-)

  202. MM

    What a great idea, I would love 2 t shirts but am happy to donate to this cause with or without a t shirt.

  205. Pebs and melody, how sad that this happens. Despite my own problems, I’d love to be able to help less fortunate children. But I wonder if I can trust anyone. Sometimes you can’t even trust the people recieving the charity (ex, the kids can just walk and use the money to buy candy to eat on the long walk home), but the teachers themselves?? How apalling.

    I think MM is getting such a great response from his readers because over the months, we’ve come to trust him. If he wanted to scam us, he could send us our shirts and keep the rest of the money — use it to buy more fishpans or pay off his credit card debts from the ton of stuff he sent home in balikbayan boxes, LOL.

  206. Wow galing everyone liked my tote bag idea! Anyway Marketman, the tote bag should have a bottom okay, to fit in loads of produce. And handles that don’t dig into your shoulders =) Good if it can stand up on its own (meaning the canvas should be thick) but if it can’t, okay lang, ala the Rustan’s bag which is easily foldable and can be stored in one’s purse. I’m a firm believer in Bring Your Own Bag and seriously, in about 2 months I’ve probably saved like 100 plastic bags! Not just for food shopping — bookstore, record store, clothing store, anything! You’ll never go back to plastic…

    Aprons are a good idea as well. You might want to rethink the T-shirt idea, may be too complicated? Oh and having more Pinoy-themed food on the logo / graphic is a very good idea. Western food is too plain / predictable I think.

  208. This is an overwhelming support to your worthy cause. Like Silly Lolo says, I too await further developements on your feeding program and will be glad to abide with whatever you come up with.

  211. i’ve been a regular reader for almost a year but it’s my first time to actually write. reading the blog is my own cure for my homesickness! there’s an overwhelming response to this project – providing nourishment to the poor school-aged kids is a great cause! i am definitely joining (although i will have to ask my sis to do it for me as i live in canada)! hope to be able to join one of the meetings when i visit…

  213. Hi MM,

    I checked with my bank (Washington Mutual) with regards to the process surrounding a Benevolent Account which could solve the dilemna of a central repository for donations from abroad. The rules and regulations are clearly defined on a single sheet which I can scan and email to you if you provide me with an eddress.

    Basically, the account will need 2 Administrators (primary & secondary) and a named Beneficiary (the school itself or the Dept of Education or whatever). The account can only be in existence for 6 months or less. At the agreed time, the bank can then wire the funds to the named beneficiary’s bank. I like this part as the money never crosses a specific individual’s hands.

    The account will have the ability to eletronically accept bank-to-bank deposits contingent of course on online compatibility with the sending bank. Donators can retain their online deposit receipt for tax purposes. At WaMu, this is a free (no fee, non-interest bearing) account.

    All of the above are specific to WaMu but I suspect most other US banks will have similar if not identical governance. You can decide how you want to set this up. Just thought I’d provide you with an available option.

  216. MM, would you please provide an update on how we can do our share on spreading good cheer this Christmas, sans shirt or tote bag. Electronic(PayPal)transactions preferred.

    Sorry for all the extra leg work, but your annual family benevolent holiday project just snowballed in to a major charity event! Hats off to everyone’s generosity.

    Mabuhay!

  218. Excellent idea MM, what a turn out!! :) Just let us know how to send the funds for those outside the Philippines ok? I like the reusable grocery bag and apron idea too! That’s so cool! I know you’re still finalizing the designs and all, but if I can make a suggestion, why not use your trade mark – french market basket for the apron, and have something like “ilovemarketmanila.com”, or “iloveMarketManila.com”; and for the tote bag, why not add “who’s your” suki, instead of just “SUKI”?? What do you think?

    So, that’ll be 1 tote bag and 1 apron for me pls and thank u!I’m so excited, I’m already picturing myself cooking at home using your apron and going to the market with your bag! :)

  219. Hi, Marketman!
    Please count me in and my friend Poch. I will bring hers when I visit her in toronto this December. That’s two (2) t-shirts please.

    This t-shirt idea rocks!

  222. Hi again. If you’re doing the tote bag, I’d rather have that one instead of a T-shirt because of fit issues. But if you’re just doing the shirts, I’d stick with my reservation of 1 tee.

  225. Hi marketman, hope that in the future you can set up a foundation where we, from overseas, can send our donations to. please know that even though we cannot send any monetary support now, you have our heartfelt support in this so very worthwhile endeavor. all the best!!

  226. Thanks Melody. I will get the details and email you.

    Sorry MM for taking up so much space on your site for a personal rant. It was totally rude of me. I just got all excited when Melody said she was with the DepEd.

  228. Pebs, no problem at all, happy the two of you connected and hopefully can do the public some good… deebee, foundation establishment is actually not that easy, but yes, in the longer term, it is something I hope to do…

  237. MM, if you want some help in the distribution and feeding program, i’m volunteering. why not make the event an excuse for an EB? Just a thought… :)

  240. Hi MM,

    If you’re going to have totes – I would like 5 of those please! Just to remind people in the US though, charitable donations where you receive something in return, are NOT tax deductible!

  243. MM: great idea you got here and timing is impeccable. contact me if you want free airtime on #1 AM radio station in the Philippines with wide-satellite AND global internet coverage.

    for your worthy cause, i’m willing to hook you up with my friend, the news director, for interview and/or plug in.
    just be prepared to print a lot more tees than the 500 once your initiative takes off.

    best regards.

  246. I really like the feeding program, the shirts are just the bonus. Please post the mechanics of the donation and I’ll figure out a way to get it to you. Now if we had more bloggers like Marketman with workable ideas on their pet causes we won’t have to rant all the time about bureaucracy benefiting only those who want to line their pockets or grab credit from private sector initiatives… Oops, hehehe. The shirts are lovely, but the program is lovelier. Thanks for letting us participate, Marketman! I’m sooo in.

  249. Sorry for the late response MM, but yes count me in. Two tees with different design and a tote for me please.

  250. I can realize my dream of setting up a “soup kitchen” in the Phil. through you. I wish you God speed in this endeavor. Knowing that you will use the money for the project wisely I will donate to this cause generously. Let us know how you plan to receive the donations from abroad, be it in cash (I can ask a friend to give cash) or through a channel abroad. No need for anything in return.

  254. This is really a great idea!
    I don’t remember when it was that I read in the times magazine that somewhere in India if I’m not mistaken, a nice man cooked breakfast everyday out of his own pocket for poor elementary students, and that meal might be the children’s only food for the day. The man said he does not know for how long he could support these children but as long as he could, the kids are going to be fed.
    Marketman, I believe you could do more than 500 shirts! you are one of those servants given by the Master 5000 or 3000,and invested in return doublefold!

  255. I’m in, with or without a shirt. But if you figure things out for US contributors, I may want a shirt and tote for a relative….

  256. I think Trish’s idea of MARKETMANiac is great for the shirt along with your French market basket logo. Paging Lee…..

  257. Hey MarketMan,

    This idea is so kewl!!! Count me in for a t-shirt (Black-XL) and a tote bag (sana katcha type)…

    I’m in Butuan City but I can probably ask my Dad in QC to give the donation on my behalf.

    Rock on!

  258. What a great and noble idea. And was amazed at the response. 2 black suki shirts and a bag for me. And would gladly offer a hand in the distribution and actual feeding program day. Just sound the bell.

  259. I already reserved my shirts a week ago but i just learned about the tote bags! Great for picking up produce in Salcedo. 2 totes please! And if you need physical help, count me in too. =)
    It’s become a frenzy, MM! Don’t pull your hairs out just yet. Hehe.

  263. i’d like 1 shirt and a tote bag please..wait…is there a tote bag? im too excited to reserve a shirt for myself and well, kinda lazy to read all the other comments….

  265. SO FAR, ROUGHLY 320 SHIRTS and 100 TOTES. I haven’t found a supplier for the latter yet but working on it… and frank, sorry for the late reply to your incredibly generous offer to put his on the air…but I think for now I’d like to keep it to the Marketmanila family… I think I can barely handle the logistics for about 500 shirts/totes as it is… But thank you very much for the offer!

  267. Ohhh… I forgot, 2 totebags please. Just to pitch-in to this great project: the ideal size is for shopping tote bags is 15″L X 6″W X 16″H with the drop size of 10″ for the handles. The bottom should be doubly reinforced for the heavy food and veggies. An inner pocket attached to the opening would be ideal. Just a suggestion po. =)
    Thanks, Mr. MM!

  268. count me in for 5 tote bags. if tote bags won’t push through, then i can convert to t-shirts.

  269. MM, hi. I signed up for 1 tote bag. Would like to add 1 more please. I don’t know if this has been done before, but yours might be the first Philippine food blog to organize, and generate support for, a charitable undertaking completely online.

  271. hi MM!!! i’ll get 3 t-shirts please. i’m abroad but i’ll ask my brother who’s in Manila to get it from the drop-off points. i hope there will be one in the QC or Pasig area area though. thanks! brilliant idea! more power!

  272. count me in for a tote bag too, MM. that brings my contribution to 1 t-shirt and 1 tote bag. thanks MM

  275. I originally posted that I wanted a t-shirt. Yes, I still do. But I also want two tote bags. That would be great for grocery shopping. So this Christmas, I will be part of helping undernourished kids and keeping the earth green by reusing the bags. Score!

  276. Hello Market Man:

    I don’t know how the donations from abroad will work but I’m sure I can figure something out since I do have relatives back home. For now, I’d like to have 3 t-shirts and 3 tote bags. Thanks, and have a wonderful day!

  277. Please count me in! 1 tote bag, 1 tshirt (but if you will produce different designs count me in for all designs)

    Good cause, MM :)

  280. Hello MM,

    I hope i’m not too late for this… count me in for 1 SUKI shirt(in XL) and 2 tote bags please.

    MM, i salute you for your good heart.

  284. would like to join your cause. pls count me in for a t-shirt and bag :)

    good luck!

  285. cool designs!! i like the marketmaniac design for the tote bag so count me in. my office is near the salcedo market so i can go there for the pick up.

  286. forgot to add that your marketman logo is also a nice design could you incorporate it in the marketmaniac shirt/tote?

  287. hi! count me in, I’m thinking of getting 2 shirts. If there is a pick up point in Market! Market! it will be easy for my mum to pick up the shirts… Will wait for the details in the coming weeks…

  288. Hi, signed up to this tshirt drive through email but since all your emails are gone and i might be missed out in the counting, just wanted to reiterate my participation in this worthy cause…

  289. I am offering my home as a pick-up point in Quezon City. Just let me know when. And one tote bag for me, and one for Mom, please.

  290. I’d like to sign up for a shirt please (XXL)….it’s a great project. Kudos to you for leveraging your cyberfame to push this endeavor.

  294. Dear MM,

    I would like to reserve 1 t-shirt size L and one tote bag pls. It would be great if the ladies’ shirts would come in baby tee style. :)

    rgds
    Chona

  296. Hello MM!!!

    What a good and big heart you have! I’m sure this project would be a huge success!!!

    I know this notice is very late but can I still order tote bags (1 for each design)?! Hope so!!!!! :)

  297. i’ve noticed that SM has also introduced their own version of a tote bag for their “green” program. i was quite pleased and bought 3 pcs.

    i wonder how can i own MM’s totes and shirts. i’ve posted an inquiry on how to avail and where to send payments but i didn’t hear any response except those of foundation-thing.

    i wish this will be solved soon. i wanna have MM’s tote bags and shirts.

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