A remote public school in Benguet has taken a major step toward digital readiness and sustainable learning as the Aboitiz Foundation turned over solar power systems, satellite internet connectivity, and a newly built classroom to Bashoy Elementary School in Kabayan.
The initiative, implemented under the foundation’s AuroraPH program, was carried out in partnership with Huawei Technologies Philippines Inc., Aboitiz Renewables Inc., and City Savings Bank, a subsidiary of UnionBank of the Philippines. The project aims to strengthen access to quality education in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.
Bashoy Elementary School, located around 80 kilometers from Baguio City and accessible only after three to four hours of travel through steep mountainous roads, has long struggled with unstable electricity, limited classroom space, and minimal access to digital learning tools. These conditions have posed persistent challenges for both teachers and students.
As part of the project, a 5-kilowatt-peak solar photovoltaic system was installed to provide reliable electricity for lighting, learning equipment, and internet connectivity. A new one-classroom building was also constructed in collaboration with the Philippine Army, with City Savings Bank providing construction materials under the Department of Education–Cordillera Administrative Region’s Salaknib Tan Namnama initiative.
“Salaknib Tan Namnama,” an Ibaloi phrase meaning “Protecting and Giving Hope,” reflects the project’s focus on restoring dignity, resilience, and opportunity among learners in last-mile communities whose education has been shaped by distance and limited resources.
The turnover also included additional solar PV systems for Awing Primary School and Labney Primary School, expanding the reach of AuroraPH to more remote learning institutions in Benguet.
“This project reflects what becomes possible when institutions come together with a shared purpose,” said Aboitiz Foundation Impact Lead for Education Jowelle Ann Cruz.
“We must continue working together to ensure that every child, regardless of geography, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. Through this donation, we are empowering last-mile learners with the tools and spaces they deserve.”
With the new facilities in place, Bashoy Elementary School now benefits from stable electricity, improved digital readiness, and a safer, more conducive learning environment. Teachers are better equipped to integrate modern teaching tools, while students gain improved conditions that support focus, engagement, and continuity of learning.
Since its launch in 2024, the AuroraPH program has energized 44 schools nationwide and aims to reach 300 last-mile schools across the country. In Benguet alone, six schools now benefit from the initiative, including Bakian Guinawan Elementary School, Marcelo Marquez National High School, Piminggan Elementary School, Bashoy Elementary School, Awing Primary School, and Labney Primary School.
Through AuroraPH, the Aboitiz Foundation continues to support the Department of Education’s mission to bridge education gaps by providing power supply, internet connectivity, and digital access to underserved communities across the Philippines.