Multi-use facility shipyard operator Agila Subic Compass, Inc. (Agila Subic) has entered into an agreement with the Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division Office (SDO) Zambales to support local education and construct facilities in Cawag, Subic, Zambales. The partnership, formalized under the "Adopt-a-School" corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, commits PHP 30 million over the next two years to build and enhance infrastructure across nine public schools in the Cawag area.
Details of the Partnership
The nine schools set to benefit include Agusuhin Elementary School-Annex, Agusuhin Elementary School, Agusuhin High School, Cawag Elementary School, Cawag Elementary School (Resettlement), Cawag High School (Resettlement), Cabitaugan Integrated School, Nagyantok Elementary School, and Nagyantok High School. The memorandum of agreement signing ceremony was recently held at Subic Central School.
Agila Subic stated that the event marks a significant milestone in its long-term vision to empower local communities through education. The PHP 30 million commitment will facilitate the construction of classrooms and a new school building, the repair of existing facilities, and the provision of essential school furniture and other equipment.
Statements from Officials
Mark Millan, general manager of Agila Subic, expressed his honor in formalizing the partnership. "It is truly an honor for us to formalize this partnership which we believe will create a meaningful and lasting impact to our teachers and, most importantly, our students. We will provide different forms of support based on the specific needs identified by each school. In this way, we can ensure that the assistance we provide will be relevant, responsive, and, most importantly, beneficial to the day-to-day needs of our students," Millan said.
Representing DepEd SDO Zambales, Schools Division Superintendent William Roderic Fallorin expressed gratitude for the company's support. "This PHP 30 million worth of investment in the future of Zambaleño learners is a significant thing for us especially in Cawag group so thanks to Agila Subic for partnering with us. It's not just about school buildings, we talk about other things that also matter in local education. Thank you for addressing our most pressing needs," Fallorin said.
Legal Framework and CSR Initiatives
The partnership is governed by Republic Act No. 8525, or the "Adopt-a-School" Act of 1998, which encourages the private sector to support the development and modernization of public schools. This initiative adds to Agila Subic's CSR programs that provide direct support to its host community. Earlier this year, the company completed a five-kilometer Road Enhancement Project in Barangay Cawag, which included road reblocking and installation of solar streetlights. The company also conducts an annual mangrove planting program in collaboration with the local fisherfolk community to advocate environmental sustainability.
The collaboration underscores a shared commitment to improving educational infrastructure and fostering community development in Zambales.
