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As part of its on-going program to help communities in Guimaras, Petron Corporation
inaugurated the Petron Library Hub in Jordan and the Petron School in Nueva Valencia today in time for
the start of the new school year.
The Petron Library Hub is the company’s
response to the problem of inadequate books and teaching resources in the public school system. The Library Hub
makes books and resources available to teachers and administrators for schools within the designated area.
Each school is allowed to borrow the book bundles for a period of 30 days.
“The Library Hub is a strong sign of our continuing
commitment to become an active partner in uplifting the lives of Guimarasnons,” Petron Chairman and CEO Nicasio I. Alcantara said.
“This is anchored on our program Fuel HOPE or Helping Filipino Youth Overcome Poverty thru Education. Through better education,
we hope to give our children an opportunity to better themselves and the country.”
The Petron Library Hub received an initial
36,000 books and is a joint undertaking between Petron, Saudi Aramco, Sa Aklat Sisikat Foundation, Petron Dealers Association,
San Francisco Public Library (USA) and Bato Balani Foundation
Government officials led by no less than
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo were present during the inauguration ceremonies. The President also witnessed the
contract signing between Petron and the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC) to establish a Mariculture
Livelihood Model Farm within the SEAFDEC facilities in Nueva Valencia.
The establishment of a Mariculture
Farm provides a practical, long-term livelihood support that will directly benefit fisherfolk. The program aims
to teach fishermen the necessary skills to go into milkfish production.
“Mariculture farming empowers
small fishermen by providing a more reliable source of income while preserving the environment,”
Petron President Khalid D. Al-Faddagh added.
During the same event, the Department
of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) also turned over the seed capital to four Self-Employment Assistance Kabuhayan
Associations for seaweed farming. The seed money is part of Petron’s P3.0 million livelihood program assistance to DSWD
for Guimaras.
Meanwhile, the company also opened the Petron
School in Tando, Nueva Valencia to usher in the new school year. The Petron School replaces a dilapidated school building
that has already been scheduled for demolition.
The Petron School has four classrooms,
new sets of chairs, electric fans, adequate lighting and clean restrooms for boys and girls. The school will also have
a training component for members of the Parent-Teacher-Community Association, as well as other support programs for
the community.
“We wish to thank all our partners
whose generosity allowed us to realize these projects and renew the hopes of the people of Guimaras,” Alcantara concluded.
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