ILIGAN CITY — More than 2,000 Grade 1 to 3 pupils in Iligan City and Lanao del Norte started the new school year with backpacks and learning supplies through the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines' (NGCP) Gamit ni Bulilit (GnB) program.
Now in its 15th year, the annual initiative benefits public elementary schools located near NGCP transmission facilities, helping ease families' back-to-school expenses while teaching children and their communities about transmission line safety.
Each beneficiary school received 250 school kits containing a backpack, notebooks, crayons, pencils, a tumbler, a raincoat, and a coloring book. The notebooks also feature transmission line safety reminders to reinforce lessons beyond the classroom.
Aside from distributing school supplies, NGCP conducted safety orientations for learners, teachers, and parents. The program included videos on transmission line safety, discussions on electrical hazards, the turnover of safety posters for schools, and interactive question-and-answer sessions.
The beneficiary schools were Sta. Filomena Central Elementary School, Amado Pitogo Memorial Elementary School, Juan Tabla Memorial School, Malingao Central Elementary School, Rupagan Elementary School, Abaga Integrated School, Kalanganan Elementary School, and Pantar Central Elementary School.
Elizabeth A. Ladaga, Government Relations and Regional Affairs Senior Officer of NGCP's Public Relations Department, said the program aims to do more than provide school supplies.
"The Gamit ni Bulilit Program helps ease the financial burden on families while educating communities about transmission line safety, especially those living near NGCP facilities," Ladaga said.
School officials said the donations made a meaningful difference, particularly for children from low-income families.
Jamila M. Campong, school head of Abaga Integrated School, said the school prioritized distributing the limited number of kits to the most deserving and less fortunate pupils.
"Each school bag represents more than just learning materials—it carries hope, inspiration, and a brighter future for our learners," Campong said.
Rupagan Elementary School Principal Jocelyn F. Alforque also thanked NGCP, saying community partnerships help motivate children to stay in school and pursue their education.
"This timely and generous donation brings immense joy and motivation to our students. Partners like NGCP remind us that with community support, we can light up the path to success for every child," Alforque said.
Through the annual program, NGCP continues to combine educational support with public safety awareness in communities hosting its transmission facilities.
