Five elementary schools in the remote and rugged highlands of Iligan City are now connected to the wider world after receiving solar energy systems and satellite Internet service donated by Aboitiz Foundation, the corporate social responsibility arm of the Aboitiz Group techglomerate, and AboitizFoods subsidiary Pilmico.

Officials from Aboitiz Foundation and AboitizFoods formally turned over the equipment to representatives of Barangay Rogongon’s Binasan Elementary School (ES), Katipunan ES, Kianibong ES, Libandayan ES and Salingsing ES during a ceremony at the latter’s multi-purpose hall on 12 December.

Engr. Alexis Revantad, AboitizFoods’ vice president for Iligan site management and flour operations, stressed the enriching potential and wide possibilities the five last-mile schools can expect by going beyond textbook education.

“Students can research, explore, and imagine futures they may not have thought possible. Teachers gain resources that help them teach with confidence and creativity. And communities gain pride—knowing that their school is not left behind but lifted up,” Mindanao Times (MT) quoted Revantad as saying.

With the ability to integrate multimedia content, access online training, and collaborate with peers across the country, educators can deliver more dynamic lessons and better support their students.

“With over 1,500 last-mile schools still without access to electricity and internet, we remain committed to connecting at least 300 of these schools, opening more opportunities, and empowering learners to thrive in the digital age,” the Foundation’s impact lead for education, Jowelle Ann Cruz, said, according to MT.

The enhancement of learning environments and upgrade of access to technology by Aboitiz Foundation are part of its AuroraPH program.

A flagship program of the Aboitiz Foundation under its Education Pillar, AuroraPH is made possible through strong partnerships with AboitizFoods, Pilmico Foods Corporation, Aboitiz power through its subsidiary A+ Power Services Inc., and the Department of Education. 

“It represents the collaboration of light-minded organizations, united by a single goal — to uplift and empower the most remote schools in our country through sustainable energy and digital connectivity,” Aboitiz Foundation president Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar said.

The turnover ceremony was also graced by Gregory Greco Canoy, CSR supervisor; Engineer. Mariel Nicole Lumpan, IPS Engineer; and personnel from AboitizFoods, Aboitiz Foundation, A+ Power Services, City Savings Bank, along with media partners and other stakeholders who actively support community-driven initiatives.

The ceremony concluded with messages of gratitude from school leaders and educators, who emphasized the transformative impact the AuroraPH program will bring to their communities.