Mabaldog Elementary School in Gabaldon officially received a 6kWp off-grid solar power system, Starlink internet connectivity, digital learning tools, refurbished classrooms, industrial fans, and school supplies on June 11 through the AuroraPH project.
CSR program
The initiative forms part of Aboitiz Foods’ corporate social responsibility program in support of the Aboitiz Foundation-led AuroraPH project, which aims to improve access to electricity, connectivity, and educational resources in geographically isolated schools.
The project was implemented through the collaboration of Aboitiz Foods subsidiary Pilmico Animal Nutrition Corp., Aboitiz Foundation, Aboitiz Power, the Department of Education (DepEd), the local government of Gabaldon, and several technical partners.
“Through AuroraPH, we are igniting a new light of opportunity to help build a modern sanctuary of learning, where students can study in comfort, explore the world through digital connectivity, and dream without boundaries,” Aboitiz Foods VP for business development and public policy. Atty. Ceazar Ryan Aquino said in a statement.
Learning challenges
Perched in the mountains of Gabaldon, Mabaldog Elementary School serves about 40 Dumagat students from kindergarten to Grade 6.
Reaching the school remains a challenge. From the nearest accessible road, the journey takes nearly an hour by motorcycle and up to three hours on foot during the rainy season, requiring travel across rivers, streams, and rocky trails.
Despite these difficulties, students regularly make the trek to attend classes, while teachers often stay on campus during the workweek and return home only on weekends.
Teacher Dyane, one of the school's three teachers, said some students walk nearly an hour to reach school each day.
“Some children walk almost an hour going to school, so when they arrive, they’re already tired. But despite that, they are eager to go to school even if they have to walk every day,” she said.
The new school year began with additional improvements, including two new classrooms and a Smart TV donated by DepEd to support interactive learning.
Digital access
For years, the school relied on a small solar power system that provided electricity for only a few hours each day.
The expanded solar installation now offers a more dependable source of power, enabling teachers and students to maximize the use of digital learning tools, charge devices, and improve classroom activities.
Industrial fans have also helped make classrooms more comfortable, while air-conditioning in the teachers’ office provides a better working environment for lesson preparation and administrative tasks.
Teacher Dyane recalled the challenges students faced before the new solar system was installed.
“Before we had these new solar panels, it was so dark. Students would say, ‘Ma’am, we can’t see. Ma’am, it’s so hot.’ Now they ask us to turn on the lights and point the electric fans toward them. It’s brighter now, and they are excited,” she said.
The addition of Starlink internet connectivity is expected to further expand access to educational materials and online resources that were previously difficult to access in the remote community.
“At Aboitiz Foundation, our long-term goal is to power up and connect 300 last-mile schools across the country,” Aboitiz Foundation manager for accounting Danielle Marie Laurente said.
“Together, we continue working toward a future where no school is too far, no learner is forgotten, and no dream is out of reach,” she added.
Shared mission
Mabaldog Elementary School is the eighth school supported by Aboitiz Foods under the AuroraPH initiative.
Last year, the company also supported two remote schools in Tarlac and five schools in Iligan City.
Aboitiz Foods CSR specialist Pinky Christine Baroman said the project demonstrates how partnerships can help reduce educational inequalities by bringing modern learning tools and opportunities closer to underserved communities.
Through AuroraPH, the company and its partners aim to ensure that even the most remote schools have access to the resources needed to help students learn, grow, and prepare for the future. —Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
