Students at Pangantucan Community High School (PCHS) in Bukidnon still struggle with basic computer tasks, not for lack of ability but for lack of access. Caltex, marketed by Chevron Philippines Inc. (CPI), is looking to change that by donating 20 refurbished laptops to close the digital divide for the students at the school.
The laptops will help the students with their mathematics and science classes, where they can now create spreadsheets and run data analysis, as well as their social studies, literature, and religion subjects through expanded access to online readings. Students will also be able to use the devices for presentations, videos, graphics, and other multimedia projects, building creative and digital skills alongside their academic work.
Teachers also stand to benefit. With resources still limited at Pangantucan Community High School, the faculty rely on the Internet to access educational materials, demonstrations, and research for their lessons – a gap the donated laptops address.
For Rev. Fr. Marlon T. Fabros, SJ, President of PCHS, the Caltex donation doesn’t just provide gadgets for students. “We often see some of our students struggle with even basic computer tasks,” he said. “This tells us that the digital divide is not simply about owning a device. It is also about having enough opportunities to use one, make mistakes, practice, and gradually become confident.”
“We are very grateful to Caltex Philippines for this generous donation, as the laptops can help remove the digital barrier for our students and help them gain confidence as they enter the next chapter of their lives after graduation,” Fabros added.
The Pangantucan donation extends the run of laptop donations Caltex has supported for schools and organizations over the years, including the Jesuit Bukidnon Mission and Ateneo de Naga University.
“At Caltex, we believe that investing in education is one of the most meaningful ways we can help communities thrive,” said Pongtorn “Bon” Tangmanuswong, General Manager and Country Chairman of Chevron Philippines Inc. “Every laptop we donate is a bet on a student’s future. It’s one of the ways our social investments across education, safety, health, livelihood, and the environment create lasting value for the communities we serve.”
“Caltex is more than just a quality fuel provider. By consistently driving social investment initiatives, we help empower communities nationwide,” added Bon.
For more updates on Caltex’s community projects, check out https://www.chevron.com/worldwide/philippines#inthecommunity.