Pangan-an Island, Lapu-Lapu City – Aboitiz InfraCapitalCebu Airport Corporation, private operator of Mactan-Cebu International Airport through its corporate social responsibility initiative, proudly launched the Solar Scholars program at Pangan-an Elementary School, reaffirming its commitment to education and sustainability. This transformative initiative is designed to support the educational sector in Lapu-Lapu City by enabling schools to transition to clean and renewable energy, unlocking opportunities to improve the quality of education.
Representatives from Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation, Aboitiz InfraCapital, AboitizPower, Aboitiz Foundation, CitySavings Bank, the Department of Education Lapu-Lapu, and the Lapu-Lapu Local Government Unit came together to press a virtual button, symbolizing the official activation of solar energy to power the school.
Held on January 22, the event gathered key stakeholders and esteemed guests, including Lapu-Lapu District Superintendent Dr. Marilyn Andales, Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation Deputy Chief Operations Officer Aldwin Uy, Aboitiz Foundation President Ana Margarita Hontiveros-Malvar, and Hon. Junrey B. Bacalso.
The Solar Scholars program is part of Aurora PH, the flagship initiative of the Aboitiz Foundation under its Future Leaders education pillar. In collaboration with the Department of Education’s Last Mile Schools initiative, the program aims to empower students in remote and off-grid areas by providing access to renewable energy, connectivity, and digital tools, ensuring that no child is left behind.
A Lasting Impact on Education and Sustainability
By integrating renewable energy solutions, schools like Pangan-an Elementary School can reallocate savings from reduced energy costs into other vital educational investments. This strategic redirection of funds will significantly enhance the learning environment and resources available to students and educators alike.
Two state-of-the-art solar power systems were installed by A+ Power Services, Inc. at Pangan-an Elementary and High School. Each 5.5 kW solar power system is equipped with 10 pieces of 550 kWp solar panels, a Losun 5 kW inverter, and a Losun 51.2V 100AH battery. These systems are designed to provide reliable, renewable energy, enabling the schools to reduce operational costs and allocate savings toward enhancing educational resources and facilities.
“This program is a source of hope for children in remote areas,” said Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, Aboitiz Foundation President. “With the AuroraPH program, we’re bringing solar power, internet, and technology to schools in far-flung parts of the country. This helps improve learning, bridge the digital gap, and prepare students for the future. We started in 2024 with 11 schools, and now over 2,000 students and teachers are benefiting.”
“Soon, we’ll be connecting more schools in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Our goal is to reach 300 schools across the country. Thanks to our partners from the Department of Education, Aboitiz Group Business Units, Aboitiz InfraCapitalCebu Airport Corporation, and local government units. Education is key to a better future, and through AuroraPH, we’re giving students and teachers the tools they need to succeed,” Hontiveros-Malvar added.
Aboitiz Foundation, through its flagship AuroraPH program under the Aboitiz Future Leaders impact program, has brought solar power, internet connectivity, and digital tools to Pangan-an Elementary and High School in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu. This is part of the Foundation’s goal to support 300 remote schools and help bridge the education gap in areas that are hard to reach or face challenges. By bringing renewable energy and connectivity, AuroraPH makes sure that students and teachers in these off-grid schools can access quality education and resources when they need them.
Voices of Support
During the event, Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation Deputy Chief Operations Officer Aldwin Uy shared his enthusiasm for the program’s potential: “Through Solar Scholars, we are not only addressing the immediate needs of schools in remote areas but also investing in a sustainable future for education. This initiative underscores our commitment to empowering communities through renewable energy and innovation.”
About Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation’s CSR Efforts
The Solar Scholars program exemplifies Aboitiz InfraCapitalCebu Airport Corporation’s broader mission to integrate education and sustainability into its corporate social responsibility initiatives. By addressing the unique challenges faced by remote schools, the program highlights the company’s dedication to creating long-term, meaningful impacts in the communities it serves.
Looking Ahead
The successful launch of the Solar Scholars program marks a significant step forward in supporting the Department of Education’s Last Mile Schools initiative. It paves the way for future projects that prioritize renewable energy and digital inclusion, ensuring equitable access to quality education for all Filipino children.
For more information about the Solar Scholars program and Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation’s CSR initiatives, please contact: Dee Verano, [email protected], and +639178071839
