GSIS, DepEd expands support to more last mile schools

PASIG CITY – The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) and the Department of Education (DepEd)  signed a memorandum of agreement to expand support for education in underserved communities, increasing the Adopt-a-School Program’s reach from 25 to 30 schools nationwide.

Under the new agreement, the GSIS will invest P400,000 per school from 2024 to 2027, providing essential learning tools and facilities to 30 schools. This expansion builds upon the program’s decade-long track record of supporting 165 schools, with a strategic focus on areas impacted by disasters and last-mile schools—those in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas that face significant challenges in accessing educational resources.

GSIS President and General Manager Wick Veloso underscored the significance of the initiative, “We are not just delivering equipment – we are opening doors to possibilities. Each laptop becomes a window to the world, every tablet a tool for creativity, and every printer brings learning materials to life in the hands of eager students.”

The program, launched in 2014, has transformed the learning experience for thousands of students in remote and disadvantaged areas. The GSIS has equipped schools with laptops, printers, smart televisions, mobile tablets, LCD projectors, sound systems, interactive boards, photocopiers, and security systems.

In his message, DepEd Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara commended the Ginhawa for All programs and services of the GSIS. “Ito’y hindi panandaliang ginhawa na binibigay ninyo sa aming mga estudyante – ito’y panghabang buhay na ginhawa dahil ‘yung binigay niyo na biyaya sa kanila walang makakabawi – ‘yan ang tunay na kayamanan na binibigay niyo sa kanila.”

In 2024, the GSIS donated solar panel installations to schools in Mindanao, ensuring sustainability and energy resilience.

For students and teachers in last-mile schools, the impact of the GSIS Adopt-a-School Program has been profound.

In Mina-A Elementary School, Aklan, Teacher in Charge Marry Ann Maglunob expressed gratitude: “Limited ang resources ng school namin dahil isa ito sa last-mile schools. Malaking tulong po ang technology packages na natanggap namin mula sa GSIS.”

A student from the same school shared how the assistance has changed their daily learning experience: “Hindi na po kami kailangang pumunta sa ibang bayan para gumamit ng computer. Dito na lang po sa school namin.”

Meanwhile, Masbate City’s Chico Elementary School Head Fredo Rondina highlighted the positive effects of the program: “This initiative by GSIS is a huge relief, not only for our teachers but also for our learners. Mas nagiging interactive ang klase, at mas napapadali ang pagtuturo sa tulong ng makabagong teknolohiya.”

For more information, visit the GSIS website at www.gsis.gov.ph, follow the GSIS on Facebook (@gsis.ph) and Instagram (@officialgsis), email gsiscares@gsis.gov.ph, or call the GSIS Contact Center at 8847-4747. ###