While Alsons Power Group is widely recognized for energizing Mindanao through its Sarangani Energy Corp and Siguil Hydro Power facilities, its latest project proves that “powering” a community goes far beyond the electrical grid.
In a heartfelt turnover ceremony in Barangay Amsipit, the group officially opened its first Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) center. The 48-sqm facility is designed to provide a safe, structured, and modern learning environment for over 50 preschoolers from Sitio Tahakayo and surrounding areas like Lebe, Makmal, Kabkal, and Titip.
Legacy beyond money
The center’s existence is a story of communal sacrifice, particularly from the Mad family, who donated the land. During the ceremony, donor Johny Mad shared a moving reflection on why he chose to give the land away rather than sell it for profit.
“Some of my acquaintances told me I should sell this land — why give it away?” Mad recounted. “I told them that if I sold it, whatever money I earn would eventually be spent. But if I donate it, what will be built here is worth far more than money — something that will continue to benefit many children even long after I am gone.”
Filling the educational gap
Alsons Power has a long history of supporting high school and college scholars, but this project marks a strategic shift toward the most critical years of a child’s development. In many rural regions, “classrooms” for the youngest learners are often makeshift or non-existent.
Alsons Power senior vice president and business manager for generations Jose Luis R. Angco emphasized that this is a natural extension of the company’s mission.
“When we build a power plant, we help energize homes and businesses. But when we build an ECCD Center, we help build dreams,” Angco said. “Education is as much a necessity as electricity. It’s what lays the foundation for a better quality of life.”
More than a building
The commitment to Barangay Amsipit extends beyond the physical structure. To ensure the quality of education matches the new facility, the Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation Inc will provide specialized capacity-building training for ECCD teachers and volunteers.
According to Alsons Power vice president for corporate services Maria Jiji Q. Lara, this is about long-term community investment.
“This project is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together with a shared vision for our children’s future,” Lara said. “We are committed to building opportunities where they are needed most. For us, investing in these children is the best way to invest in the future of the communities we serve.”
This article was adapted from a news release by VRITimes Philippines and Alsons Power Group. For the original article and further details, click this link: https://www.vritimes.com/ph/articles/e128a923-81e7-11ef-9d9f-0a58a9feac02/d9d7d8d7-615e-4ed1-b8b6-5798e170d69e.