BDO Life has partnered with One Million Lights Philippines and BDO Foundation to provide solar lamps to indigenous Dumagat-Remontado communities in Quezon through its Lights for Life campaign.

Launched as part of BDO’s 50th anniversary, the initiative aims to improve the lives of families living in off-grid communities by providing access to safe and sustainable lighting.

Under the program, BDO Life donates P500 for every qualified life insurance policy purchased to help fund solar lamps for households without access to electricity.

The initiative targets more than 1,000 Dumagat-Remontado households, whose primary sources of livelihood include river fishing, vegetable farming and copra production.

For many residents, limited access to electricity has affected daily life, forcing families to rely on daylight to complete household chores and making it difficult for children to study after sunset.

“For the students, when they get home, they are no longer able to do their lessons because there is no electricity,” said Myra Dela Cruz, tribal chieftain of the Dumagat-Remontado community.

More than just a source of light

Barangay councilor Liezel Sarmiento said the solar lamps represent more than just a source of light for the community.

“Even with just a simple light, we can be given hope and guidance,” she said.

BDO Life said the campaign reflects its commitment to extending the benefits of protection beyond its policyholders by helping underserved communities gain access to safer living conditions, better educational opportunities, and improved livelihoods.

The company said every qualified policy purchased not only helps secure a family’s future but also contributes to bringing light and opportunity to another Filipino family living beyond the reach of the power grid.