Education Advocate Brings Hope Beyond Infrastructure Through Classroom Repairs

City Savings Bank (CitySavings), the thrift bank arm of the Aboitiz-led Union Bank of the Philippines, has strengthened its commitment to promote quality education by supporting the construction and refurbishment of more than 30 learning spaces nationwide last year.

Through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, the transformed learning spaces will benefit more than 2,500 teachers and nearly 44,000 learners, aligning with the Department of Education’s (DepEd) five-point agenda to address basic education challenges.

“CitySavings remains steadfast in our commitment to actively support DepEd’s programs. By co-creating safe and empowered learning spaces, we are investing in the future of every Filipino learner,” shared CitySavings President and CEO Manuel Santiago, Jr.

In 2025, the Bank made significant contributions to major construction projects at Bashoy Elementary School in Kabayan, Benguet, and Santiago South Central School in Santiago City, Isabela. The project also reached several schools in Isabela, Nueva Vizcaya, Bulacan, Tarlac, Laguna, Albay, Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Southern Leyte, Davao del Norte, South Cotabato, Lanao del Norte, and Surigao del Norte for repairs and refurbishments.

Hope Beyond Infrastructure

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to City Savings Bank for their unwavering support that goes beyond infrastructure; it inspires hope and a positive change. Your assistance leaves a lasting impact on the lives of our learners and the entire school community,” said Principal Melozar Dizon of Santiago South Central School, Santiago City, Isabela.

“At a time when resources were scarce and the needs were many, City Savings Bank stepped in without hesitation. The Bank immediately assisted in replacing the damaged corrugated sheets. This act was not just about providing materials; it was about giving our learners a safe space to dream, learn, and grow despite the disaster that had shaken our community,” shared School Head Dennis Calataro of Old Fabrica Elementary School, La Castellana, Negros Occidental.

In Davao del Norte, Principal Manuel Esperanza of Panabo City National High School emphasized the importance of bayanihan in creating a safe and healthy learning environment. “The donation of construction materials will allow us to have a more comfortable and fully-functional school clinic. Thank you, City Savings Bank, for being a committed partner in education, going beyond providing financial services for teachers,” he noted during the official turnover.

For 2026, CitySavings reaffirms its support for DepEd’s Adopt-a-School Program (ASP) to significantly contribute to more classroom construction and repair projects, to reach as many learners as possible. As community-centered financial partners, the Bank will continue to provide relevant, accessible, and sustainable CSR programs that elevate the lives of the people it serves.