Solar Power Illuminates Remote Canipo Island School, Empowering Education
On the peaceful and sea-surrounded island of Canipo, Canipo Integrated School in Coron has long faced the challenge of lacking a stable electricity supply. Classes often relied solely on natural daylight, with limited use of computers, internet, and other digital learning tools that are commonplace on the mainland. However, on February 10, 2026, a new chapter began for the school.
Through Project Liadlaw by Vivant Foundation, Inc. (VFI), an 18.7 kWp solar electrification system valued at P3.6 million was turned over. This project delivers clean, renewable, and reliable electricity for classrooms, teachers, and over a hundred students on the island.
Collaborative Efforts for Sustainable Energy
The solar installation was carried out in partnership with Calamian Islands Power Corporation (CIPC), a subsidiary of Vivant Energy, and the Department of Education Schools Division of Palawan.
Eric Omamalin, CIPC President, stated, "Vivant goes where others hesitate. Energizing last-mile areas has always been part of our mission. Projects like this help equalize opportunities to progress for all, especially for communities that are often beyond the reach of conventional power."
Since 2015, VFI has continued to implement various community initiatives in the Coron Islands. The solar electrification in Canipo marks the foundation's 14th project in these islands and the second in the municipality. In 2024, the foundation also provided a literacy resource grant to strengthen learning materials at the school, which is now supported by a stable power supply.
Community Impact and Future Prospects
Shem Jose Garcia, Executive Director of Vivant Foundation, emphasized, "More than the accolades, it is the realities of missionary areas like Canipo that fuel our work. This is why we continue to live out our mission to improve everyday living. We believe that progress starts when it is supported by reliable energy."
The local community expressed immense gratitude. Rosemarie Canenea, Teacher-In-Charge at Canipo Integrated School, shared, "Our students have always had talent and potential. What they needed was the opportunity to grow beyond the limits of our location. With this solar project, that potential can finally be liberated. It gives our young people the chance to dream bigger and reach farther."
Now, classrooms remain bright even after sunset. Teachers can better prepare lessons, and students can explore new knowledge more effectively. In Canipo, solar power not only lights up bulbs and devices but also fuels hope, aspirations, and a brighter future.
