City Savings Bank has supported the construction and refurbishment of more than 30 learning spaces nationwide in 2025, benefiting nearly 44,000 learners and more than 2,500 teachers, as part of its corporate social responsibility efforts to promote quality education.
City Savings Bank, the thrift bank arm of the Aboitiz-led Union Bank of the Philippines, said the initiative aligns with the Department of Education’s five-point agenda to address 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,” said CitySavings President and CEO Manuel Santiago Jr.
Among the major projects completed last year were construction works at Bashoy Elementary School in Kabayan, Benguet, and Santiago South Central School in Santiago City, Isabela. Repair and refurbishment efforts also covered schools in 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.
Bashoy Elementary School also benefited from the Aboitiz Foundation’s AuroraPH program, which provides renewable energy and internet connectivity to remote learning communities. The school received a solar panel system and satellite internet connection to improve access to electricity and digital learning tools.
School officials cited the projects’ impact beyond infrastructure improvements.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to City Savings Bank for their unwavering support that goes beyond infrastructure; it inspires hope and a 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.
In Negros Occidental, CitySavings supported the repair of damaged classroom roofing at Old Fabrica Elementary School in La Castellana following the eruption of Mt. Kanlaon.
“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,” said School Head Dennis Calataro.
CitySavings also supported the repair of a school clinic at Panabo City National High School in Davao del Norte. Principal Manuel Esperanza highlighted the importance of collaboration in strengthening school facilities.
“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, going beyond providing financial services for teachers,” Esperanza said during the turnover ceremony.
CitySavings said it will continue supporting the Department of Education’s Adopt-a-School Program in 2026, with plans to fund additional classroom construction and repair projects nationwide.