ILOILO — Security Bank Foundation, Inc. formally turned over a two-storey, 10-classroom building to Iloilo City National High School, marking a significant milestone in the bank's long-standing commitment to Philippine education. The turnover ceremony gathered officials from the foundation, the Department of Education, and the school community.
A Joint Effort for Education
The building was generously donated by SBFI under its Build a School, Build a Nation initiative. Construction began in February 2026 and was completed within the year. The turnover ceremony was attended by Rafael F. Simpao, Jr., Chairman of Security Bank Foundation, Inc., along with other officials and representatives from the foundation and Security Bank.
Also present were Ma. Luz M. Delos Reyes, PhD, CESO V, Schools Division Superintendent of the Department of Education, and Alpha Java, Principal of Iloilo City National High School. Their presence underscored the shared commitment to creating safe and inspiring learning environments for Filipino students.
Partners Who Shared the Vision
The project was made possible through the support of various partners who contributed resources and expertise. AC Steel provided the roofing materials, ensuring that the structure would withstand the elements and provide lasting shelter for students.
Signify contributed Philips lighting, outlets, and switches, illuminating the classrooms with energy-efficient fixtures. LBC subsidized 50 percent of the shipping cost of project materials, easing the logistical burden of transporting construction supplies to the site. These partnerships demonstrated how collaboration can multiply the impact of a single initiative.
A Milestone for the Foundation
This turnover marks a significant achievement for SBFI's School Painting Volunteer Program. The Iloilo City National High School building represents the 125th classroom painted by Security Bank employees. Since the launch of the Build a School, Build a Nation initiative in 2011, the Foundation has conducted 18 school painting activities.
Through these activities, 1,293 employee volunteers have contributed their time and effort to help create conducive learning environments. The program reflects the Foundation's belief that education is the foundation of national progress. Every classroom built and every wall painted brings the country closer to a brighter future.
A Legacy of Service
The turnover ceremony celebrated not just the completion of a building but the spirit of bayanihan that made it possible. Security Bank employees from six Iloilo branches volunteered their time to paint the classrooms, ensuring that the spaces would be ready for students.
The school community expressed deep gratitude for the donation. Principal Alpha Java thanked the foundation and its partners for believing in the power of education and in the dreams of young learners. She emphasized that the new building would serve generations of students.
Building the Future Together
The collaboration between SBFI, its corporate partners, and the school community exemplifies the power of collective action. By pooling resources and expertise, they created a lasting asset that will benefit hundreds of students for years to come. The building stands as a testament to what can be achieved when people work together.
As the ceremony concluded, officials expressed hope that the partnership would inspire other organizations to invest in education. The new building will open its doors to students, providing a safe and inspiring space for learning. It represents a promise kept and a future secured.
