SAN MARCELINO, Zambales — A total of 10 public elementary schools in San Marcelino, Zambales received digital learning tools to enhance access to digital education and improve teaching resources in the municipality.
Under the Center of Excellence (CENTEX) Digital Education Project, a collaborative initiative between the Ayala Foundation and the local government, the program aims to strengthen digital education and teacher training in public schools, particularly in remote areas.
In his message, Mayor Elvis Ragadio Soria emphasized the importance of equal access to learning opportunities.
“Mahalagang mabigyan ng pagkakataon ang mga batang Marcelinean na maabot ang mas mataas na antas ng pagkatuto sa tulong ng mga guro at teknolohiya,” he said.
The beneficiary schools received 250 tablets and nine Starlink internet kits to support online learning and the integration of digital tools in classroom instruction.
The recipient schools include Sta. Fe Elementary School, Sta. Fe Oit Elementary School, Baliwet Elementary School, United Nation Women Aeta School, Chiang Chio Te Memorial Aeta School, Aglao Elementary School, Buhawen Elementary School, Lawin Elementary School, Dalanawan Elementary School, and Judd Hendrick Memorial Aeta School.
Laoag Integrated School Master Teacher Rosela Polante shared how the program transformed their classroom experience.
“From the traditional ‘chalk and talk,’ our classes have become more interactive and technology-driven. Lessons are now more student-centered, and it’s easier for us to prepare since the materials are already available on Khan Academy. With just one click, everything is ready for the students,” she explained.
Polante added that they have also observed significant improvement in student performance through the use of digital assessment tools.
“Because we can monitor students’ performance in real time, we can immediately identify who needs help. In Math, in particular, we’ve noticed that students who used to struggle are now more engaged and confident. The visual and interactive lessons truly help them understand the concepts better,” she said.
Implemented under the High Touch, High Tech learning model, the CENTEX Digital Education Project combines adaptive learning platforms such as Khan Academy Philippines with teacher mentoring to improve classroom engagement and student outcomes.
The project is implemented through the partnership of the Ayala Foundation, Department of Education, San Mar Solar Energy Inc., Huawei, Philanthropy Asia Alliance, and the Education Development Center.
It provides both digital tools and capacity-building support for teachers to enhance instruction in Mathematics and other subjects.
During its first year in 2024, the initiative benefited more than 1,600 learners from nine public schools in San Marcelino.
A study conducted by the Global Education Development Center, with researchers from the University of Illinois and the University of Glasgow, showed that student scores doubled within 12 weeks—from 27 percent to 56 percent—equivalent to four months of additional learning.
Through the continued partnership among the government, education sector, and private institutions, San Marcelino remains committed to creating inclusive, technology-enabled learning environments for all learners.
