Aboitiz donates 40 classrooms to DepEd

MANILA, Philippines – More than 40 classrooms were turned over Tuesday by Aboitiz Foundation to the Department of Education for kindergarten students all over the country.

“Believing that a better-educated youth means a better Philippines, the Aboitiz Foundation continues to implement projects in the area of education,” Aboitiz Foundation Chairman Erramon Aboitiz said during the turnover ceremonies.

Aboitiz Foundation presents AGAPP chair Pinky Aquino-Abellada (second from right) with the sculpture entitled ‘Mother & Child’ by Toym Imao as inspired by Ms. Aquino-Abellada’s commitment to nurturing individuals and communities for the good of the country. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO.

The classrooms were donated through Aboitiz’ partnership with Aklat, Gabay, Aruga Tungo sa Pag-angat at Pag-asa (AGAPP) Foundation that has been ongoing since 2011.

“Our partnership with AGAPP allows us to start them young, as we provide kindergarten students with a conducive environment for learning, helping them build a strong and solid foundation in their education journey,” Aboitiz said.

Of the total 42 classrooms, 16 were located in schools in Mindanao while 12 were in Luzon and 14 in Visayas.

From 2011 up to 2014, a total of 176 classrooms have been turned over for the benefit of 23,000 preschool children.

Aboitiz said that education is their primary advocacy and that half of Aboitiz Foundation’s annual budget is allocated for projects that support the country’s public education system.

Aside from building classrooms, Aboitiz said that they also refurbish science and computer laboratories, provides scholarships and financial assistance, and donates computers and library kits as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility.

DepEd Secretary Armin Luistro and AGAPP chair Pinky Aquino-Abellada attended the turnover event to personally thank Aboitiz for their donation.

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