CEBU CITY – Eight public schools in Cebu were among the latest beneficiaries of an advocacy that seeks to provide digital learning tools to remotely located schools.
TABLETS and Starlink satellite internet kits were given to a school in a far-flung area in Cebu. (Contributed photo)
Through the Pay IT Forward advocacy, the Eduardo T. Oporto MNHS in Bogo City, Kalagyawon NHS in Carcar City, Cabagdalan NHS in Balamban, Gilloctog NHS in Barili, Alpaco NHS in the City of Naga, Nicolas Tiongco MNHS in Danao City, Nemesio Epifania Taneo MNHS in Lapu-Lapu City, and Gen. Climaco MNHS in Toledo City each school received tablets and Starlink satellite internet kits.
Led by Republic Asia Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Bran F. Reluao, the rollout of the digital learning tools undertaken in collaboration with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the Department of Education (DepEd), iACADEMY, and Republic Asia, aims to close the digital access gap in far-flung communities through the donation of internet connectivity and educational devices.
“Education is the great equalizer,” said Reluao. “As a digital inclusivity advocate, I personally believe that technology can be a powerful equalizer, too – if we give every learner a fair chance at success. One learner, one school at a time.”
The Pay IT Forward campaign focuses on underserved learning communities in areas with limited infrastructure and poor internet access. Through this initiative, Republic Asia hopes to provide students and teachers with the digital resources needed to stay connected and competitive in a tech-driven world.
Reluao highlighted the value of forging alliances to achieve sustainable results. “When we build more partnerships with the government and private sectors, we open the door to even bigger opportunities – and that’s what I’m truly excited about,” he said.
DICT Secretary Henry Aguda recognized the impact of the initiative, describing Republic Asia and iACADEMY as key drivers of education technology in the country.
Echoing this sentiment, iACADEMY President Raquel Perez-Wong said that while the challenge of bridging the digital divide remains immense, even small steps can lead to wider change.
“Pay IT Forward is an advocacy that allows us to share our tech and digital privilege,” Wong said. “While our effort doesn’t solve the challenge entirely, our hope is that our small steps will later turn to bigger resolve and greater hope for others so each and every one of us will have our fair chance to shine in this digital world.”
She added: “iACADEMY is humbled by this partnership with Republic Asia in this very noble cause to address the digital divide and we hope others join our digital bayanihan.”
DepEd Assistant Secretary Mars Veloso emphasized the enormity of the education sector’s coverage. “We are serving 40,000 school locations – about 54,000 schools if you include integrated schools, high schools, and senior high schools,” he said, noting the vast potential for partnerships like this to make a difference.
Teachers from the recipient schools expressed their appreciation for the support, calling it transformative for students in isolated areas.
“This meaningful contribution will greatly support our students’ access to digital learning and enhance their educational experience,” said Ramil Gemota of Kalagyawon NHS.
“Our heartfelt thanks to iACADEMY and Republic Asia for bridging the digital divide. Your generous donation of a Starlink internet connection and tablets to Alpaco NHS and SHS will empower our students with better access to digital learning. Your support means the world to us,” said Maria Cristy Sarvida Deguma of the DepEd-City of Naga Division.
Looking ahead, Reluao said the project is just the beginning of a broader national effort.
“Together, we aim to spark a nationwide movement that empowers communities to embrace the digital transformation journey,” he said. “Let’s continue to pay it forward. Let’s build a community that thrives in the digital world, where no learner is left behind.”