Indigenous students in Palawan are seeing brighter days—literally and figuratively—after One Meralco Foundation (OMF) energized three remote public schools with solar power and multimedia learning tools.

The initiative, part of OMF’s School Electrification Program (SEP), reached Calupisan Elementary School in Rizal and Paliisan and Catagupan Elementary Schools in Balabac, providing previously unenergized classrooms with a reliable source of electricity. The solar photovoltaic systems now illuminate classrooms, improve ventilation, and power Wi-Fi and multimedia devices that bring interactive lessons to students.

Teachers say the changes are already transforming learning. Analyn Miñao, a kindergarten teacher at Calupisan Elementary, expressed optimism over the access to more resources and visual aids. Meanwhile, Emman Riambon highlighted how the new multimedia equipment immediately increased student engagement: “Students who were previously inattentive perked up with the use of these tools.”

For schools on remote islands, the new resources also act as an incentive for students to attend school despite long commutes. “We are grateful for everything that were given for our students. These will help us improve and keep up with the developments happening beyond our island,” said Myca Tamba, teacher at Paliisan Elementary School.

The equipment, donated by Meralco Employees’ Fund for Charity, Inc. (MEFCI) and Lenovo Philippines, includes televisions, printers, and laptops to help teachers integrate multimedia content into lessons. Department of Education Schools District Supervisor Fe Agbon welcomed the initiative, noting, “Not all our students are able to go to the town, but now that we have these tools, they are learning more about what is happening there.”

OMF President Jeffrey Tarayao described the program as more than just providing electricity: “What we delivered to these remote schools in Palawan is much more than electricity—it is the light of hope for every student—made possible by the shared commitment of our partners who are dedicated to bring opportunities to the farthest corners of the nation. Together, we are ensuring that no community is left behind in the journey toward a truly brighter future for Filipinos.”

Since 2011, OMF’s School Electrification Program has energized over 300 public schools nationwide, benefiting more than 92,000 students and 3,000 teachers.

With more remote schools gaining access to electricity and digital learning tools, how can the Philippine energy sector and corporate partners further support educational development in off-grid communities? Share your thoughts.

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