CEBU, Philippines — On January 22, Pangan-an Elementary School celebrated a brighter future. Thanks to the Solar Scholars program, the school officially transitioned to solar energy, a step toward sustainability and improved education. Representatives from Aboitiz InfraCapital Cebu Airport Corporation (AIC-CAC), Aboitiz Foundation, local officials, and the Department of Education (DepEd) joined hands to activate the solar-powered systems, bringing light to classrooms in this remote island community.
This initiative, part of Aboitiz Foundation’s AuroraPH program, aims to bridge the education gap in off-grid areas. Through renewable energy, internet connectivity, and digital tools, the program enables schools to save on operational costs and reinvest in educational resources. AuroraPH started in 2024 with 11 schools and has already impacted over 2,000 students and teachers nationwide.
Pangan-an Elementary and High Schools now boast state-of-the-art solar power systems. Installed by A+ Power Services, each system includes 5.5 kW capacity, 550 kWp solar panels, and advanced inverters and batteries. This ensures reliable power and a sustainable future for the school community.
“For children in remote areas, this program is a beacon of hope,” said Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, Aboitiz Foundation President. “AuroraPH not only brings solar power but also equips schools with technology to close the digital gap. By 2025, we aim to connect 300 schools across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, with support from DepEd and our partners.”
DepEd’s Last Mile Schools initiative aligns perfectly with AuroraPH’s mission. These efforts focus on reaching underserved schools in far-flung communities to ensure that every Filipino child receives access to quality education.
Aldwin Uy, Deputy Chief Operations Officer of AIC-CAC, emphasized the significance of the project. “Solar Scholars doesn’t just address today’s challenges; it invests in a sustainable future for education. This reflects our commitment to uplifting communities through renewable energy and innovation,” he shared.
As part of AIC-CAC’s corporate social responsibility, this program reinforces their broader vision of sustainability and inclusivity in education. Beyond energy savings, these initiatives aim to empower schools to create meaningful, long-term impacts in the lives of Filipino students.
With AuroraPH, Aboitiz Foundation is charting a path to a brighter, more inclusive education landscape. By bringing light and learning to Pangan-an, it’s not just powering schools—it’s empowering a generation.
