Aboitiz Foods Delivers Solar Power and Internet Connectivity to Last-Mile School in Nueva Ecija

A remote indigenous school in Nueva Ecija is beginning the new school year with brighter classrooms, internet connectivity, and improved learning facilities through Aboitiz Foods’ support for the AuroraPH project.

On June 11, 2026, Mabaldog Elementary School in Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija officially received a 6-kWp off-grid solar power system, Starlink internet connectivity, digital learning tools, classroom improvements, industrial fans, and school supplies through the collaborative initiative.

The project was implemented through a partnership among Pilmico Animal Nutrition Corporation, Aboitiz Foundation, Aboitiz Power, the Department of Education, the local government of Gabaldon, and other technical partners. The initiative aims to bridge gaps in electricity, digital connectivity, and access to learning resources in geographically isolated communities.

Learning in One of the Most Remote Communities

Perched in the mountains of Gabaldon, Mabaldog Elementary School serves around 40 Dumagat students from kindergarten to Grade 6. Reaching the school requires nearly an hour of travel by motorcycle from the nearest accessible road or almost three hours on foot during rainy days, crossing rivers, streams, and rocky paths.

Despite these challenges, students continue to attend classes daily, often walking long distances to reach school. Teachers make similar sacrifices, staying on campus during weekdays and returning to their families only on weekends.

“Some children walk almost an hour going to school, so when they arrive, they’re already tired. But despite that, they are eager to go to school even if they have to walk every day,” shared Teacher Dyane, one of the school’s educators.

From Darkness to Digital Access

For years, the school relied on a small solar power system that provided electricity for only a few hours each day. The newly installed solar system now offers a more reliable source of power, allowing students and teachers to maximize digital learning tools, charge devices, and create a more conducive learning environment.

Industrial fans have made classrooms more comfortable, while teachers now have an air-conditioned office that supports lesson preparation and planning during their stay on campus. The addition of Starlink internet connectivity also opens access to educational materials and digital resources that were previously unavailable to the school community.

Atty. Ceazar Ryan Aquino, Aboitiz Foods Vice President for Business Development and Public Policy, said the project seeks to create opportunities for students in remote communities.

“Through AuroraPH, we are igniting a new light of opportunity to help build a modern sanctuary of learning, where students can study in comfort, explore the world through digital connectivity, and dream without boundaries.”

A Shared Vision for Education

Mabaldog Elementary School is the eighth school supported by Aboitiz Foods under the AuroraPH initiative. In 2025, the company also assisted two remote schools in Tarlac and five schools in Iligan City.

The initiative forms part of Aboitiz Foundation’s long-term goal of providing electricity and internet connectivity to 300 last-mile schools across the country. By combining sustainable energy solutions with digital access, the project aims to help ensure that no learner is left behind because of geography.

For students and teachers in Mabaldog, the project represents more than infrastructure upgrades. It is an opportunity to learn, connect, and imagine possibilities that were once beyond reach.