IRAM II Elementary School in Zambales celebrated an early Christmas gift from Aboitiz Foundation and Subic EnerZone, in partnership with GivePower Foundation, with the installation of a sustainable solar power system.

This initiative provides essential electricity to one of the Department of Education’s identified Last Mile Schools, transforming learning for students, teachers, and the entire community.

The solar-powered facilities, received with excitement by students, parents, teachers, and OIC Principal Jason E. Alde, mark a new chapter for the school. Now equipped with a stable power source, classrooms can support modern educational tools like laptops and digital learning resources. Previously hindered by a lack of reliable power, the school faced challenges in creating an enriching learning environment.

“This solar power installation is more than just a gift; it’s a commitment to the future of these students and their education,” said Jason E. Alde, OIC Principal of Iram II Elementary School. “We are deeply grateful for this support, which brings power and light to our classrooms and enables our students to explore new educational opportunities.”

Students, teachers, and partners celebrated the milestone with joyful dances, marking the gift of solar energy from Aboitiz Foundation, Subic EnerZone and GivePower Foundation.

This project is part of AuroraPH, Aboitiz Foundation’s flagship initiative under its Future Leaders pillar, focused on bridging education gaps by providing sustainable power and internet connectivity to remote schools. “Our mission is to empower communities and shape future leaders. With AuroraPH, we’re not just installing solar panels but creating a conducive learning environment for the students and teachers at Iram II,” shared Ginggay Hontiveros-Malvar, Aboitiz Foundation President and Chief Reputation and Sustainability Officer. “This program was made possible with the committed support of our partners GivePower, AboitizPower, and Subic EnerZone.”

Dante T. Pollescas, President and COO of Subic EnerZone Corporation, expressed the company’s commitment to supporting these communities, stating, “Subic EnerZone is honored to be part of this initiative that empowers the youth through clean and reliable energy. We are excited to see how access to power will open up new learning experiences for the students of Iram II Elementary School, creating brighter possibilities for their future.”

The installation included an orientation on September 13, 2024, to train teachers and staff on the solar system’s use and maintenance, ensuring a lasting impact. The school can now offer brighter classrooms and greater access to digital tools, paving the way for student growth and development.

“The Aboitiz Foundation’s AuroraPH project sets a high standard that will definitely benefit our students. Congratulations to our DepEd team for making sure we no longer have to worry about electricity here, and for working on ways to further improve our schools so our Aeta students can study better,” said Olangapo City Mayor Rolen C. Paulino Jr.

Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education), Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), this initiative reflects Aboitiz Foundation’s commitment to sustainable development and equitable resource access.

“Aboitiz Foundation, alongside DepEd, GivePower, AboitizPower, and Subic EnerZone, is committed to advancing education and development for remote schools,” Hontiveros-Malvar added. “We are proud to support DepEd’s 5-point agenda under Secretary Sonny Angara in enhancing digital education, infrastructure, and teacher support.”