Twelve public elementary schools in the highland areas of Valencia, Negros Oriental, have received a total of 36 laptops from Green Core Geothermal, Inc. (GCGI). This supports their efforts to enhance digital learning in remote communities.

As reported in an article by the Philippine Information Agency, each of the 12 schools, which are located near the Palinpinon Geothermal Field, was given three laptops during a turnover ceremony attended by officials from the Department of Education (DepEd) and GCGI. The donation is valued at over PHP1 million and also includes school supplies and raincoats for students.

DepEd Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Neri Ojastro welcomed the initiative, saying it will significantly help both learners and educators in remote areas. The donated laptops are expected to improve teaching delivery and student engagement, especially in technology-aided instruction.

GCGI, a subsidiary of Energy Development Corporation (EDC), made the donation through its SIKAT program, which is short for “Sining at Kultura, Agham at Teknolohiya.” The program is focused on providing educational and technological support to students in host communities.

Erwin Magallanes, head of corporate relations at GCGI, said the program is part of the company’s broader mission to empower communities through education. He added that GCGI is committed to ensuring that the benefits of clean and renewable energy reach even the farthest barangays.

Local leaders also expressed their gratitude. Barangay Caidiocan’s captain Marlon Lorico and elementary school principal Sharon Tolomia both highlighted how the laptops will make a significant difference in classroom instruction, enabling the use of digital presentations, and other modern teaching tools.

The partnership highlights the role of the private sector in supporting education in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. These efforts help bridge the digital divide in the country’s public school system.

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Photo Credit: Philippine Information Agency