Lighting the Path to Learning: Sun Life Powers Up Remote Schools with Solar Energy

As part of its 130th anniversary celebration, Sun Life Financial-Philippines Foundation, Inc. is lighting up the future—literally—for students in the country’s most remote areas. In partnership with Solar Village Foundation, Sun Life Foundation has launched Project 130 Brighter Schools, an ambitious initiative to equip up to 130 Last Mile Schools with solar power by 2030.

Last Mile Schools are often found in geographically isolated and disadvantaged communities, many without electricity or proper teaching resources. These schools typically cater to indigenous learners and multigrade classrooms, facing immense challenges in delivering quality education.

To address this, the project will install 2KWH solar systems in these schools—enough to power lighting, laptops, printers, and essential teaching tools. The goal is to extend learning hours, enhance classroom conditions, and support both students and teachers in underserved areas.

The project’s pilot phase begins with 20 schools in Sarangani, South Cotabato, and Sultan Kudarat, benefitting around 2,600 students and 180 teachers.

“This milestone is more than a celebration; it’s a commitment to making lasting impact,” said Sun Life Philippines CEO and Foundation Chairman Benedict Sison. “By bringing solar energy to remote schools, we aim to brighten lives and empower communities.”

Solar Village Foundation Trustee Jaime Gabriel Ayala echoed the sentiment: “We are proud to work alongside Sun Life in this mission. It’s not just about lighting up schools—it’s about transforming futures.”

With this initiative, Sun Life Foundation reaffirms its role as a beacon of sustainability and community upliftment, showing that a brighter future starts with one empowered school at a time.