From darkness to digital. Aboitiz Foods powers up classrooms with solar panels and provides digital learning resources to last-mile schools in Capas, Tarlac, empowering students and teachers toward a brighter digital future.
In many quiet corners and learning spaces far from city centers, possibilities feel limited by the absence of basic resources such as electricity and internet connection. It is in these last-mile communities and classrooms where transformation becomes most meaningful. When Aboitiz Foods visited two remote schools in Capas, Tarlac to deliver solar panels, support classroom rehabilitation, and provide digital connectivity, it was more than just an outreach activity—it was a demonstration of how people, purpose, and partnership fuel the Aboitiz Group’s Great Transformation.
A spark of hope through digital connectivity
The rugged terrain going to the two last-mile schools in Barangay Santa Juliana were rather challenging to trudge. But with the help of the Philippine Army and the Philippine Air Force, the Aboitiz Foods team successfully reached Tarukan and Alunan Elementary Schools to bring digital transformation and the value of innovation, ensuring that even the most remote communities are part of the Great Transformation journey.
Lighting the way to inclusive quality education in the digital era, Aboitiz Foods donated solar-powered and digitally equipped classrooms as part of Aboitiz Foundation Inc.’s broader AuroraPH program. By providing a 6kWp off-grid standalone solar power system, a year-long Starlink internet subscription, essential school supplies, and painting and cleaning materials for Brigada Eskwela activities, Aboitiz Foods offered more than equipment—it offered time, opportunity, and hope.
Teachers shared stories of difficulty in conducting classes, and students who struggled to study in dark, poorly ventilated classrooms. Now, their classrooms have become brighter, lessons smoother, and evenings more productive. Tarukan Elementary School also underwent full roof rehabilitation for a safer, more conducive learning space, while Alunan Elementary School received two smart TVs for more efficient digital learning. For many of the students, the arrival of stable light and the internet was a first glimpse of a future where digital tools are accessible, not distant.
“On behalf of the Tarukan community and Tarukan Elementary School, we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude for your generous donation,” said Tarukan Elementary School Head Jerson Gania, adding, “Siguradong mae-experience ng mga bata at mae-embrace nila ang education through technology and integration of ICT in teaching. Wala na pong maiiwan.”
(English translation: “The children will surely experience and embrace education through technology and the integration of ICT in teaching, ensuring that no one will be left behind.”)
“It’s not only the school that benefits from it, but even our community,” said Alunan Elementary School Head Dr. Edmon Navarro, adding, “Kung may emergency cases po, nakaka-connect po sila sa amin. Ang laking tulong po ng Starlink because of the solar (power) connection. Nagkaroon kami ng kuryente rito.”
(English translation: “In case of emergencies, people can connect with the Starlink internet provider. It has been a huge help because of the solar power connection. It has provided us with electricity here.”)
Bringing ‘new light’ to last-mile schools
A flagship program of the Aboitiz Foundation, implemented in partnership with DepEd and Starlink, AuroraPH aims to bridge the educational and digital divide by bringing renewable energy, internet connectivity, and digital learning resources to some of the country’s most remote learning communities. Derived from the Latin word for “new light,” AuroraPH targets to reach 300 last-mile schools nationwide, which are often hours away from the nearest town center and beyond the reach of the power grid, and create equitable learning opportunities through technology.
In Capas, Tarlac, the 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion Armor Division of the Philippine Army, and the 790th Air Base Group of the Philippine Air Force provided logistical and security support to ensure that materials and resources were delivered safely and in good condition to the two remote schools.
The ceremonial turnover held on October 30 was attended by representatives from Aboitiz Foods, Pilmico Animal Nutrition Corporation (Pilmico), Department of Education (DepEd) Tarlac, the Philippine Army, the Philippine Air Force, together with the students, faculty, and community members. Among the guests were Aboitiz Foods’ Assistant Vice President (AVP) for Brand & Reputation Management Pamela Lynne Liwag; 790th ABG CERAB Group Commander LTC Owen Avenido PAF (GSC); 3rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion Commanding Officer LTC Ernanie Martin ARM (GSC) PA; DepEd Tarlac Public Schools District Supervisor of Capas West Carlos Hipolito; and Pilmico AVP for Supply Chain (Logistics) Kathy Jane Roque.
“Project AuroraPH reflects our belief at Aboitiz Foods that when we come together with purpose and compassion, we can make a lasting difference,” said Liwag, adding, “May these facilities serve as symbols of resilience and collaboration — proof that progress is not built by one, but by many. We hope this inspires the students and teachers to continue learning, dreaming, and building a brighter tomorrow.”
Teamwork in action
Twenty Aboitiz Foods team members from Tarlac also volunteered during the Brigada Eskwela at the Tarukan Elementary School to repaint school facilities and prepare them for solar power installation. The Philippine Army and Philippine Air Force also assisted in transporting the materials across the difficult terrain to the schools.
Following the Tarlac implementation, Aboitiz Foods also plans to bring AuroraPH to last-mile schools in Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija, and Iligan City.
Over the years, Aboitiz Foods has consistently supported schools across Capas and Bamban through volunteer work and community partnerships. By integrating the AuroraPH initiative into its corporate social responsibility program, the company strengthens its commitment to creating lasting value and meaningful impact—advancing education, innovation, and sustainability in communities where it is needed most.Guided by Aboitiz Foods’ brand promise, “Together We Nourish the Future,” AuroraPH stands as a testament to how partnership and purpose can empower people, strengthen communities, and build a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow. This illustrates how transformation moves beyond corporate walls and becomes an inclusive journey toward a future where progress is not just achieved, but shared by all.
