Malampaya group switches on solar-powered learning centers

The Malampaya consortium, led by Shell Petroleum Exploration B.V. (SPEX), led the ceremonial switch-on of solar-powered high school learning centers in Isla Verde, Batangas.

Energy Secretary Vincent S. Perez hailed the project, saying that this is consistent with the Arroyo administration’s agenda for accelerated rural electrification.

SPEX was joined by Perez, Batangas City Mayor Eduardo B. Dimacuha and officials of Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc. and other members of the Malampaya consortium – Chevron Texaco and PNOC Exploration Corp. – in the lighting ceremony.

Perez said the P1.5-million Isla Verde solar-powered high school learning centers will be funded by the $4.5-billion Malampaya Deep Water Gas to Power Project to be implemented by Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc. and the city government of Batangas as co-implementor.

It will be installed in the three high school learning centers located in Barangays San Antonio, San Agustin and San Agapito in Isla Verde, Batangas.

"I laud the Malampaya Deep Water Gas to Power Project for their commitment to the learning, awareness and development of students in Batangas. Indeed, the provision of solar-facilities in three learning centers in Isla Verde would certainly help uplift the educational development of students," Perez said.

He said the installation of solar systems, which are considered renewable sources of energy, is a strong push towards the government’s thrust of increased environmental awareness.

The energy chief, an active scuba diver, while diving off Isla Verde in the past, had noticed that the Isla Verde communities had no electricity. As the last remaining territory of Batangas with no electricity, Perez asked the Malampaya consortium to fund the solar electrification of Isla Verde.

Apart from the installation of the solar panels, the three learning schools will also be provided with two computers each packed with the latest operating system. Teachers will be provided with basic training in computer education and windows operation, to help the students better understand computer operations.

"I am very pleased with the Malampaya Deep Water Gas to Power Project for giving the students of Isla Verde an opportunity to access to basic computer education. In this way, we are able to help the students develop their computer skills as well as help the Arroyo government fulfill and develop the Philippines into a major player in the field of information and communication technology," he said. – Donnabelle Gatdula