Aboitiz Foundation, ING bring digital learning to Bulacan schools
THE installation of solar panels at Kawit Elementary School allows students and teachers to access digital learning resources through clean and reliable electricity.
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THE installation of solar panels at Kawit Elementary School allows students and teachers to access digital learning resources through clean and reliable electricity.
The Aboitiz Foundation and ING Hubs Philippines have partnered to provide digital learning infrastructure to four public schools in the remote municipality of Doña Remedios Trinidad (DRT), Bulacan, in a bid to improve access to quality education in one of Central Luzon’s geographically isolated communities.
Under the partnership, Kawit Elementary School, Basyo Elementary School, Bato Elementary School, and Pinag-anakan Integrated School were equipped with solar power systems, battery storage facilities, satellite internet connectivity, television sets, and learning supplies through AuroraPH, the Aboitiz Foundation’s flagship initiative for last-mile schools.
The program supports the Department of Education’s Last Mile Schools Program by bringing renewable energy, internet access, and digital learning technologies to underserved schools nationwide.
“Through AuroraPH, we are helping create learning environments where students and teachers can connect to knowledge, opportunities, and resources that were previously difficult to access. We hope to empower schools to become stronger centers of learning and community development,” said Jowelle Ann Cruz, assistant vice president for impact programs of Aboitiz Foundation.
The foundation said AuroraPH seeks not only to improve classroom instruction but also to strengthen schools as community hubs that connect learners, educators, and families to wider opportunities.
To date, the initiative has identified 84 schools across the country for energization and connectivity support as part of its long-term goal of reaching 300 last-mile schools nationwide.
The DRT project was supported by ING Hubs Philippines, which said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to promoting educational access and digital inclusion.
“Solar panels are not only about providing energy or ensuring there is light, they also help build resilient communities, creating a reliable system that supports children in their learning and growth. At ING Hubs Philippines, we are committed to contributing to a sustainable future by supporting initiatives like AuroraPH, helping advance inclusive and sustainable education in last-mile schools,” said Wesley de Goede, chief operating officer for finance and people and sustainability executive sponsor of ING Hubs Philippines.
“By investing in connectivity and access to learning, we hope to help equip young people with the tools they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world,” he added.
Aside from funding solar power systems and internet connectivity, ING Hubs Philippines also donated 300 learning kits to students in the beneficiary schools. Television sets were provided by CitySavings Bank through the Aboitiz Group’s KINDer program.
The partnership highlights efforts by the private sector to expand access to renewable energy, digital connectivity, and educational resources in underserved communities, particularly in remote areas where reliable electricity and internet services remain limited.
