For more than 200 students and teachers at Libis Elementary School in Antipolo City, Rizal, access to solar power means new opportunities to learn, teach, and explore beyond the pages of a textbook.
One Meralco Foundation (OMF), in partnership with B&M Global Services Manila (GSM), energized the off-grid school through its School Electrification Program, bringing electricity to a community where many learners belong to the indigenous Dumagat Remontado tribe.
The newly installed solar photovoltaic system powers the school’s facilities, computers, and multimedia equipment, opening access to digital lessons and interactive resources previously beyond its reach.
To help turn that access into richer classroom experiences, Meralco employees donated a television, laptop, printer, and speaker set through the Meralco Employees Fund for Charity, Inc. (MEFCI).
GSM Executive Director Lorie Barredo and employee-volunteers also distributed Balik Eskwela kits to all students, providing essential materials to support their studies.
“This initiative reminds us that development begins with access, and access creates hope,” Barredo said. “By bringing clean and renewable energy to the school, the Foundation and GSM hope to support a learning environment where children can grow with confidence, curiosity, and courage.”
For School Principal Jinky Martinez, the project’s impact extends beyond powering equipment. It also gives teachers an opportunity to introduce learners to renewable energy and environmental responsibility.
“You didn’t just donate solar panels — you donated hope, learning, and a brighter tomorrow. Thank you for investing in the future of our children. Your kindness truly illuminates their path to quality education,” Martinez said.
OMF President Jeffrey O. Tarayao underscored the importance of partnerships in helping remote communities gain access to opportunities increasingly shaped by technology.
“When organizations align their resources and purpose, we do more than just build or improve infrastructure—we create opportunities and light up futures,” Tarayao said. “OMF’s partnership with B&M Global Services Manila demonstrates how shared commitment can break down barriers, giving our young learners the tools they need to dream bigger and reach their full potential.”
The ceremonial turnover brought together school officials, local government representatives, education leaders, and Meralco personnel.
Joining Martinez were Antipolo City Councilor James Gatlabayan, representing Mayor Casimiro “Jun” Ynares III; Dr. Rachel Abejero, public schools district supervisor of DepEd Antipolo City, representing Schools Division Superintendent Lerma Flandez; and Dr. Ramil Ginete, Project Development Officer IV, representing Regional Director Charlie Rocafort.
Meralco Cainta-Masinag-Antipolo Business Center Head Alvenn Jewison Migrino and Rizal Sector Manager Roberto Dizer also attended.
Since 2011, OMF has energized 309 off-grid public schools nationwide, helping bring digital learning and expanded educational opportunities to students in last-mile communities.
