THE DEPARTMENT of Education (DepEd) and the Gokongwei Brothers Foundation (GBF) have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to improve educational access for underprivileged students, with a particular focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

The MOA was formalized on Thursday (09 Jan 2025), with Education Secretary Sonny Angara leading the signing ceremony.

DepEd highlighted that the partnership is aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for marginalized students, especially in STEM fields. In response, GBF expressed its commitment to continue investing in STEM education by providing scholarships, educational technology, teacher training programs, and other forms of school support.

Through this collaboration, GBF aims to benefit 10,000 educators and reach 1,000,000 learners by 2025 via its TeachSTEM Scholarship Program.

Key figures present during the MOA signing included DepEd officials Undersecretary Gina Gonong, Assistant Secretary Jerome Buenviaje, Director Jennifer Lopez, Director Ciela Mendoza, and Ms. Dove Cometa. GBF was represented by Mr. Lance Gokongwei, Ms. Lisa Gokongwei-Cheng, Ms. Robina Gokongwei-Pe, Ms. Grace Colet, and Ms. Tinette Tabuena-De Asis.