Manuel V. Pangilinan-led One Meralco Foundation (OMF) has partnered with lifestyle brand Urbanize to distribute 5,000 school bags to public school students ahead of the 2026-2027 academic year, expanding a long-running education support initiative that has already reached more than 51,000 learners nationwide.

The partnership was formalized through a deed of donation signing, under which Urbanize committed to donate 5,000 backpacks through OMF’s Balik Eskwela program. The initiative will be supported by Urbanize’s nationwide campaign that donates one Balik Eskwela backpack for every P3,500 worth of purchases made in its stores.

Each backpack will include a postcard where customers can write a personal message to the student recipient.

The collaboration adds private-sector support to OMF’s annual back-to-school drive, which provides essential learning materials to students in underserved communities.

Urbanize President Irish Lim said the partnership would help extend the program’s reach and impact.

“We realize that we can create an even greater impact with the right partner who can expand our reach and make our efforts more hardworking. We hope this initiative inspires more people to take part in helping students succeed because sometimes, something as simple as a backpack can make a child feel seen, prepared, and motivated to learn.”

OMF President Jeffrey O. Tarayao said the initiative highlights the value of collaboration in delivering education assistance to communities.

“Programs of this scale and impact are never achieved alone; they are built on partnerships and meaningful collaboration. This is why our partnership with Urbanize is both timely and deeply significant. Your generous donation of 5,000 high-quality school bags will go a long way in supporting our students as they prepare for the upcoming school year. Ultimately, sometimes that is all it takes—to remind a child that they are not alone, that they are seen, and that they are truly supported,” he said.

Meralco Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Ronnie L. Aperocho underscored the importance of providing students with basic school necessities, drawing from his experience as a former public school student in South Cotabato.

“Equipping students with the tools they need for school sets them up for long-term success. We are glad to partner with Urbanize, as our shared vision ensures we are actively and meaningfully supporting the next generation of Filipinos,” he said.

Since its launch in 2014, OMF’s Balik Eskwela program has benefited more than 51,000 students and 6,600 teachers across over 600 schools nationwide.

The initiative also supports the Department of Education’s goal of improving access to quality and equitable basic education for Filipino learners.

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