CitySavings-built classroom gets solar power, satellite internet under AuroraPH initiative

Aboitiz Foundation expanded access to clean energy and digital connectivity through AuroraPH, its flagship program that brings solar power and satellite internet to last-mile schools, with Bashoy Elementary School in Kabayan, Benguet — one of the schools supported by City Savings Bank (CitySavings) — as a key beneficiary.

CitySavings, the thrift bank arm of the Aboitiz-led Union Bank of the Philippines, strengthened its commitment to quality education last year by supporting the construction and refurbishment of more than 30 learning spaces nationwide, including infrastructure improvements at Bashoy Elementary School.

Through the combined efforts of CitySavings and Aboitiz Foundation, Bashoy Elementary School now benefits from upgraded classroom facilities alongside a newly installed solar panel system and satellite internet connection under AuroraPH. This integration of infrastructure, renewable energy, and connectivity ensures reliable electricity and improved access to digital learning tools for teachers and students in the remote community.

Overall, CitySavings’ education initiatives have benefited more than 2,500 teachers and nearly 44,000 learners nationwide, aligning with the Department of Education’s (DepEd) five-point agenda to address key challenges in basic education.

“CitySavings remains steadfast in our commitment to actively support DepEd’s programs. By co-creating safe and empowered learning spaces, we are investing in the future of every Filipino learner,” shared CitySavings president and CEO Manuel Santiago Jr.

In 2025, the bank also contributed to major construction and refurbishment projects at Santiago South Central School in Isabela, as well as repair efforts in schools across Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, Bulacan, Tarlac, Laguna, Albay, Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Southern Leyte, Davao del Norte, South Cotabato, Lanao del Norte and Surigao del Norte.

Hope beyond infrastructure

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to City Savings Bank for their unwavering support that goes beyond infrastructure; it inspires hope and positive change. Your assistance leaves a lasting impact on the lives of our learners and the entire school community,” said principal Melozar Dizon of Santiago South Central School, Santiago City, Isabela.

“At a time when resources were scarce and the needs were many, City Savings Bank stepped in without hesitation. The bank immediately assisted in replacing the damaged corrugated sheets. This act was not just about providing materials; it was about giving our learners a safe space to dream, learn, and grow despite the disaster that had shaken our community,” shared school head Dennis Calataro of Old Fabrica Elementary School in La Castellana, Negros Occidental.

In Davao del Norte, principal Manuel Esperanza of Panabo City National High School highlighted the importance of bayanihan in building a safe and healthy learning environment. 

“The donation of construction materials will allow us to have a more comfortable and fully functional school clinic. Thank you, City Savings Bank, for being a committed partner in education,” he noted during the official turnover.

For 2026, CitySavings reaffirms its support for DepEd’s Adopt-a-School Program to expand classroom construction and repair projects nationwide. Together with initiatives like AuroraPH of Aboitiz Foundation, these efforts continue to create safer, more resilient, and digitally enabled learning environments for Filipino learners.