San Jose de Buenavista, Antique – More than 7,000 students of Antique National School now step into a brighter, safer, and more inspiring learning environment as Security Bank Foundation, Inc. (SBFI) turned over a newly constructed two-storey, eight-classroom building under its flagship Build a School, Build a Nation program.
For decades, the campus struggled with cramped, makeshift spaces, with eleven sections squeezed into rooms separated only by thin dividers. “Students and teachers alike have to compete with noise and distractions while trying to learn,” said School Principal Roger Jomolo, who described the donation as both transformative and personal.
“As a proud alumnus, it warms my heart to see Security Bank make Antique National School a better place to learn and to produce more young leaders in the future,” he added. “This building expands our home and brings new hope—giving learners the space they need to focus, grow, and dream.”
A learner’s story of resilience brought even deeper meaning to the moment. Grade 11 student Laica Shane Fernandez, who lost her school materials in a house fire, continued her studies by selling handmade polaroids and school supplies to support her needs.
“Kahit sunod-sunod ang pagsubok, mas naging motivated po ako na pagbutihin ang pag-aaral upang mabawi namin ang nawala sa amin,” Laica shared. “Now, with these new classrooms, I can focus on learning without distractions.”
Security Bank Foundation Chairman Rafael Simpao, Jr. reaffirmed the organization’s steadfast commitment to strengthening Philippine education. “We trust our actions show how serious we are in elevating the education of Filipino youth—one child at a time. Some may feel the country’s challenges are overwhelming and that our efforts hardly make a difference. I disagree. There is power in persistent, persevering effort.”
To date, the Foundation has donated 877 classrooms to 150 schools across 91 cities and municipalities—helping alleviate overcrowding and creating spaces where Filipino students can learn with dignity, hope, and confidence.