Aboitiz turns grade schoolers into ‘Solar Scholars’

Aboitiz turns grade schoolers into ‘Solar Scholars’ | Daily Tribune

Students of Pangan-an Elementary and High School (PEHS) in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu are now Solar Scholars as their education will now be powered by the sun’s energy through photovoltaic panels donated by Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (AICAC), private operator of Mactan-Cebu International Airport, through Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (AFI).

Solar Scholars also refers to the program under the flagship AuroraPH initiative of AFI in collaboration with the Department of Education’s Last Mile Schools initiative.

“This program is a source of hope for children in remote areas,” Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, AFI president, said during the turnover ceremony for the solar power system installed at the PEHS on 22 January.

“With the AuroraPH program, we’re bringing solar power, internet and technology to schools in far-flung parts of the country. This helps improve learning, bridge the digital gap and prepare students for the future. We started in 2024 with 11 schools, and now over 2,000 students and teachers are benefiting.”

Hontiveros-Malvar added, “Soon, we’ll be connecting more schools in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. Our goal is to reach 300 schools across the country. Thanks to our partners from the Department of Education, Aboitiz Group Business Units, Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation, and local government units. Education is key to a better future, and through AuroraPH, we’re giving students and teachers the tools they need to succeed.”

Two state-of-the-art solar power systems (SPS) were installed by A+ Power Services Inc. at PEHS. Each 5.5 kilowatt (kW) SPS is equipped with 10 pieces of 550 kWp (kilowatthour peak) solar panels, a Losun 5 kW inverter, and a Losun 51.2V 100AH battery.

The SPS will reduce the school’s operational costs and allocate savings toward enhancing educational resources and facilities for students and educators alike.

During the event, AICAC deputy chief operations officer Aldwin Uy shared his enthusiasm for the program’s potential.

“Through Solar Scholars, we are not only addressing the immediate needs of schools in remote areas but also investing in a sustainable future for education. This initiative underscores our commitment to empowering communities through renewable energy and innovation,” he said.

The Solar Scholars program exemplifies AICAC’s broader mission to integrate education and sustainability into its corporate social responsibility initiatives. By addressing the unique challenges faced by remote schools, the program highlights the company’s dedication to creating long-term, meaningful impacts in the communities it serves.