While the ideal ratio is 1:40, numerous schools have a classroom-student ratio of 1:60 or more. Many classrooms also need major repair due to wear and tear over the years.

The Foundation, in partnership with Aboitiz Group business units, local government units, the Department of Education, and other private organizations, builds new classrooms, refurbishes computer and science laboratories, and donates school equipment.

In its home province Cebu, Aboitiz recently turned over 45 classrooms and eight new laboratories to nine public schools in Mandaue and Lapu-Lapu City. The new classrooms and facilities in Mandaue were funded in partnership with the city government.

The additional classrooms, which were turned over in a ceremony held in one of the school beneficiaries, Mandaue City Comprehensive National High School (MCNHS) last July 14, aim to address overpopulation.

Other beneficiaries in these areas include Banilad High School; Subangdaku Elementary School; Cabancalan-2 Elementary School; Cubacub Elementary School; Babag National High School; Mandaue City Science National High School; Jagobiao National High School; Cabancalan National High School.

Meanwhile, in Taguig City where its corporate headquarters is now located, the company recently refurbished classrooms in Taguig National High School to serve as both lecture room and workshop for the school’s Electrical and Automotive Technology class. It is being developed as a Technical-Vocational School.

Last May, the Foundation also signed a Memorandum of Agreement with DepEd Division of Taguig City and Pateros to build an Aklat, Gabay, Aruga Tungo sa Pag-angat at Pag-asa (AGAPP) Silid Pangarap school building in Taguig Elementary School as part of the 40 classrooms that it has pledged to construct this year. AGAPP is a non-profit organization advocating literacy.

“The Aboitiz Group is committed to improving the quality of public education in the country. Its biggest thrust is on education-related projects because the company believes this is where it can make the greatest impact,” said Foundation Managing Trustee and Chief Operating Officer Sonny Carpio.

Aboitiz is also engaged in the full-scale development of Special Science Elementary Schools nationwide in response to the government’s call for science-based skills specialization among young students.

Aboitiz Foundation is the corporate foundation of the Aboitiz Group. Established in 1988, it addresses the social and economic development needs of marginalized members of society. It implements corporate social responsibility interventions especially in areas where Aboitiz companies are located. The foundation focuses on three program components, namely education, enterprise development, and environment.