Alsons Power Group, through its Maasim-based Sarangani Energy Corporation and Siguil Hydro Power Corporation, has officially turned over its first Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Center in Sarangani, marking a significant step forward in its ongoing commitment to advancing community development through education.
Alsons Power Group, through its Maasim-based Sarangani Energy Corporation and Siguil Hydro Power Corporation, has officially turned over its first Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD) Center in Sarangani, marking a significant step forward in its ongoing commitment to advancing community development through education. Located in Barangay Amsipit, the new ECCD facility provides a dedicated, safe space for preschoolers to begin their formal learning journey.
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The 48-square-meter center was built in partnership with the Local Government of Maasim and Barangay Amsipit officials, with the Mad family generously donating the land for the project. The facility is expected to benefit more than 50 children from Sitio Tahakayo and nearby Sitios Lebe, Makmal, Kabkal, and Titip.
Johny Mad recalled how, years ago, children in the sitio had to make do with informal and makeshift spaces for learning, often left behind by limited access and resources
His voice quivered as he addressed the crowd during the turnover ceremony, pausing briefly as if holding back tears.
“Ingon sa akong mga kaila, ako daw ibaligya ning yuta… ngano ako lang man daw ihatag? Gitubag nako sila… kung ako ning ibaligya mahurot man dayon na. Ihatag na lang nako kay ang itukod ani sobra pa sa kwarta nga hangtud mawala nako aning kalibutana mapahimuslan pa sa daghang kabataan,” said land donor Johny Mad.
(“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.”)
While Alsons Power has long been known for delivering reliable and affordable energy to Mindanao, the company emphasized during the ceremony that powering communities goes beyond electricity.
“When we build a power plant, we help energize homes and businesses. But when we build an ECCD Center, we help build dreams,” said Jose Luis R. Angco, Senior Vice President and Business Manager for Generations. “Education is as much a necessity as electricity. It’s what lays the foundation for a better quality of life.”
The focus on early childhood is a strategic move. While Alsons Power has long supported high school and college scholars, the company recognized the gap in the earliest, most critical years of development. In many rural areas, “classrooms” for pre-schoolers are often makeshift or non-existent.
The support won’t stop at the physical building. Through the Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation Inc., the company will also provide capacity-building training for ECCD teachers and volunteers to ensure the quality of instruction matches the new facility.
“This project is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together with a shared vision for our children’s future,” said Vice President for Corporate Services Maria Jiji Q. Lara. “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.”
Source: Vritimes
