Milestones are more meaningful when they’re shared with the communities that made them possible. For its 12th anniversary, EastWest Rural Bank (EWRB) chose to look beyond celebrations and instead reached out to public schools in remote and typhoon-hit areas bringing support, smiles, and much-needed encouragement to learners and teachers across the countryside.
Held from November 5 to 20, 2025, the outreach program focused on schools affected by Typhoons Tino and Uwan, reinforcing the bank’s long-standing commitment to grassroots communities in the Philippines.
Bringing Relief and Joy to Students and Teachers
As part of the anniversary initiative, EWRB visited selected public schools across Regions 5, 6, 7, and 11, reaching a total of 590 learners and 49 teachers.
Each visit included the distribution of:
- Jollibee meals for students and teachers
- Drawing and coloring materials for learners
- Rice packs and EastWest Rural Bank giveaways
Beyond the items, the activity created moments of connection something especially valuable for schools still recovering from the effects of recent typhoons.
A Celebration Rooted in Community Presence
EastWest Rural Bank President Sheila Marasigan-Bajado shared that the outreach reflects the bank’s intention to stay present where it matters most.
She explained that instead of a traditional anniversary celebration, the team chose to visit schools that needed encouragement after the storms, expressing gratitude to the teachers and school heads who welcomed them and allowed the bank to spend time with their students.
This people-first approach echoes EWRB’s role as a rural bank that understands the realities faced by families in far-flung areas.
Schools Reached Across Four Regions
The anniversary outreach covered five public elementary schools, with the help of teachers, school administrators, and barangay representatives who facilitated the on-site activities:
- Region 5: Lipata Elementary School (Masbate) and San Isidro Elementary School (Cataingan)
- Region 6: Cudian Elementary School, Brgy. Cudian, Ivisan, Capiz
- Region 7: Combado Elementary School, Purok Pagtinabangay, Bogo City
- Region 11: Cayawan Elementary School, Manay, Davao Oriental
Each stop highlighted the importance of collaboration between local institutions and private organizations, especially during periods of recovery.
Supporting Education Beyond Banking
For EastWest Rural Bank, the outreach is part of a broader effort to remain connected with schools, families, and rural communities, particularly after natural calamities. By supporting learners and educators on the ground, the bank reinforces its role not just as a financial institution, but as a partner in community resilience.
In a country frequently affected by typhoons, recovery often begins in small but meaningful ways—shared meals, school supplies, and simple reminders that communities are not alone. EWRB’s 12th anniversary outreach is a timely example of how corporate milestones can translate into real, positive impact.
Programs like this show that when businesses invest in education and community well-being, everyone moves forward together.