Pitching in for the future of the youth, the “Bad Boy of Philippine Movies” is showing his other side and leveraging his celebrity status to support the educational advocacies of Talk ‘N Text (TNT), the leading prepaid mobile service in the country.

Renewing his engagement as TNT endorser, Padilla represents the brand in its partnership with the Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation (YBHF), a national movement that pools funds to support the education needs of its partner communities around the country.

“The youth has a special spot in my heart, and I feel honored not only to extend my commitment to Talk ‘N Text, but also be a part of its education projects for the sector,” said Padilla during the contract signing recently held at the Smart Tower in Makati City.

“I feel that aside from delivering affordable and reliable mobile services, TNT’s efforts to touch the lives of ordinary Filipinos are a big reason why it is supported by many,” Padilla added.

YBHF started out by providing boats that would transport kids in Zamboanga’s mangrove villages to their school, but it has since expanded by offering scholarships, supplies, medical missions and livelihood programs in 13 communities nationwide.

As a partner of YBHF, TNT has donated 15 boats to the foundation and 80 units of barangay phones meant to be used as shared community phones. TNT also facilitated an easy way for subscribers to support the organization through text messaging. TNT and Smart subscribers may forward donations by texting YELLOWBOAT (space) (Amount of Donation) and send to 4483.

Available denominations are P5, P10, P100, P300, and P500, which will be deducted from the subscriber’s load.

“Using his personal trials, Robin Padilla has emerged not only as a better actor but also as a positive influence to many,” said Jane Basas, Smart Prepaid Marketing Group Head. “With his influence and passion, we believe that TNT’s partnership with YBHF, as well as its other endeavors catering to the youth, would go a long way,” she added.

Aside from partnering with YBHF, TNT also has set up a cash assistance program for college students from select partner schools nationwide. TNT also recently turned over a classroom meant for the teaching of basic Arabic lessons and Koran readings in Baseco compound in Manila.

“All these projects are all in line with TNT’s Araw-Araw Panalo message of creating “winning moments” in simple but meaningful ways,” Basas said.

[Press Release from Talk ‘N Text]