Vivant Foundation Inc. (VFI), together with Vivant Energy Corporation and its subsidiary 1590 Energy Corporation, has upgraded electrical systems in three public elementary schools and provided library packages to 14 schools in Bauang South District, La Union, as part of efforts to improve learning environments and support literacy.
Implemented in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd), the initiative addresses two basic needs in public education: safer classroom facilities and greater access to learning materials.
Cabalayangan, Pudoc and Sta. Monica Elementary Schools received electrical wiring upgrades intended to reduce safety hazards and improve conditions for students and teachers. Meanwhile, all 14 public schools in the district received Mini Library Packages to support reading activities and classroom instruction.
The initiative comes as the Philippines continues efforts to improve students’ reading proficiency. The country’s reading score in the 2025 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) increased by 20 points from its 2022 result. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development also recognized the Philippines as the fastest-improving country in reading over a 10-year period.
“These efforts help create safer, better-equipped school environments while giving learners greater access to resources that encourage reading, learning, and discovery,” said VFI Executive Director Shem Jose W. Garcia.
Bauang Mayor Ma. Clarissa T. Lee welcomed the assistance, emphasizing that safe classrooms and access to books are essential to quality education.
The turnover ceremony was held as part of the foundation’s contribution to National Teachers’ Month and brought together representatives from the local government, DepEd and 1590 Energy.
The project highlights how private-sector participation can complement public education efforts by addressing practical barriers to learning. Improved electrical systems can help create safer school facilities, while accessible books provide additional resources for developing reading habits and supporting instruction.
However, sustaining these gains will also depend on regular facility maintenance, effective use of library resources and continued cooperation among schools, government agencies and private partners.
For Vivant Foundation, the initiative extends its community engagement into school infrastructure and literacy, linking immediate classroom needs with the broader goal of improving educational opportunities for Filipino learners.
