The Aboitiz Foundation — the corporate social responsibility arm of the Aboitiz Group — has partnered with ING Hubs Philippines to bring quality education to four last-mile public schools in Bulacan by providing access to renewable energy and reliable internet connectivity.

This comes after the two organizations signed a memorandum of agreement for the initiative, which is part of the foundation’s AuroraPH program.

Under the partnership, ING Hubs Philippines will donate solar power systems to Basyo Elementary School, Bato Elementary School, Kawit Elementary School and Pinag-Anakan Integrated School in Doña Remedios Trinidad, Bulacan.

The Aboitiz Foundation will work closely with the Department of Education and local officials to provide internet connectivity and conduct training for teachers.

Jowelle Ann Cruz, Aboitiz Foundation Impact Lead for Education, thanked ING Hubs Philippines for supporting AuroraPH, stressing that access to power and connectivity is vital for expanding learning opportunities.

“Energizing last-mile schools empowers teachers and learners by opening doors to countless learning opportunities,” Cruz said. “With the support of partners like ING Hubs Philippines, we are able to bring meaningful and lasting change to the communities that need help the most.”

Meantime, Hazel Zaide delos Santos, country manager of ING Hubs Philippines, called the partnership an investment in the next generation.

“We equip our learners with the skills they need to become competitive through our shared effort in powering these schools,” Delos Santos said. “By providing reliable energy and access to connectivity, we help create a more comfortable space for both students and teachers.”

AuroraPH harnesses solar power, internet connectivity, digital tools and teacher training to reduce learning gaps in remote areas. Following a 2024 pilot that reached 11 schools and 2,500 learners, the program now targets 100 schools in 2025, with a long-term goal of energizing 300 schools nationwide.