The One Meralco Foundation (OMF) has intensified efforts to bring electricity to the country’s most remote public schools through its School Electrification Program (SEP). The foundation provided solar power systems that enable teachers in Palawan and Camarines Norte to use modern learning tools and improve classroom instruction.

The initiative, which targets last-mile schools beyond the reach of the national grid, supports educators who continue to serve in geographically isolated areas with limited resources.

“Teachers returning to their roots is a unique heroic act that gives inspiration to the many young students in these last mile schools,” said One Meralco Foundation President Jeffrey O. Tarayao. “We honor them by our commitment to ensure that educators who answer this call are supported with resources they need, like electrification, to keep spreading light and hope for the next generation.”

Among the beneficiaries is Calupisan Elementary School in Rizal, Palawan, where kindergarten teacher Analyn Miñao teaches indigenous Palaw’an children. Before the school was energized, lessons were conducted without access to electricity or multimedia equipment.

“Lubos na kasiyahan ang nararamdaman ko tuwing nakikita kong dahan-dahan silang natututo,” said Miñao, who walks alongside her students—many trekking up to two hours to reach class each day. She said the availability of power will help teachers use digital materials, boosting student interest and learning outcomes.

In Camarines Norte, Eugenia M. Quintela Memorial High School on Calaguas Island now enjoys the benefits of solar power through the same program. Teacher Jonel Elnar, a former student who returned to teach on the island, recalled how classes once relied on kerosene lamps and manual resources.

“Namulatan kong mag-aral nang tukarol o gasera lang ang gamit kapag gumagawa ng assignment. Ngayon, mas maliwanag na ang bukas ng aming mga estudyante,” Elnar said. “Hindi lang po ang mga classroom namin ang lumiliwanag, ganun din po ang future ng aming mga mag-aaral.”

Through SEP, OMF provides solar installations that power televisions, laptops, and printers—equipment that allows teachers to prepare visual learning materials, print handouts, and integrate multimedia lessons. The foundation, Meralco’s corporate social responsibility arm, has been rolling out the program to remote communities nationwide since 2012.

OMF said the project underscores its commitment to advancing inclusive energy access and education in underserved areas, where lack of electricity remains a barrier to learning.

For teachers like Miñao and Elnar, solar energy has become more than just a source of light—it has become a tool to sustain hope, inspire students, and bridge the educational gap between rural and urban learners.

How can broader electrification partnerships between the public and private sectors further empower teachers and students in last-mile communities? Share your thoughts on this development.

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