Alsons Dev Brings Digital Learning to Davao Public Schools Through Khan Academy Partnership

Alsons Dev Brings Digital Learning to Davao Public Schools Through Khan Academy Partnership

Monday, August 3, 2026

Access to digital learning continues to expand in Davao City as Alsons Development and Investment Corporation (Alsons Dev) partners with Khan Academy Philippines to equip public elementary schools with learning technology, internet connectivity, and teacher support.

The initiative, implemented under the Department of Education's (DepEd) Adopt-a-School Program, goes beyond donating devices. It combines technology, educator training, and long-term implementation support to help schools integrate digital learning into everyday classroom instruction.

Why is Alsons Dev investing in digital learning?

The program is designed to address one of the biggest challenges facing many public schools: ensuring that digital education tools are not only available but also sustainable.

As part of the initiative, Alsons Dev donated 128 tablets to three public elementary schools in Davao City:

• Tugbok Central Elementary School
• T. Awad Echevarria Elementary School
• Paradise Embac Elementary School

The partnership was formalized through Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) and Deed of Donation signings held on July 14 and 15, 2026, attended by representatives from Alsons Dev, the Conrado and Ladislawa Alcantara Foundation Inc., Khan Academy Philippines, DepEd Region XI, local government officials, and school administrators.

Unlike many one-time technology donation programs, the company has also committed to funding three years of internet connectivity, teacher training, and implementation support, helping schools maximize the use of the learning platform.

What is Khan Academy?

Khan Academy is a nonprofit educational platform that provides free online lessons, instructional videos, and interactive practice exercises across subjects including Mathematics, Science, and English.

In the Philippines, Khan Academy works with schools to align learning content with the Department of Education curriculum, allowing teachers to integrate digital resources into classroom instruction while tracking student progress through online dashboards.

The platform supports personalized learning by allowing students to learn at their own pace while giving educators real-time insights into individual performance and areas where additional support may be needed.

How does personalized digital learning benefit students?

Personalized learning uses technology to adapt educational content to each student's pace and learning needs.

Instead of requiring every learner to progress at the same speed, digital platforms allow students to revisit lessons, practice difficult concepts, and receive immediate feedback.

For teachers, built-in analytics provide a clearer picture of student performance, making it easier to identify learning gaps and adjust instruction accordingly.

This approach has become increasingly important as schools continue integrating technology into classrooms to complement traditional teaching methods.

A growing role for private sector support in education

Public-private partnerships have become an important part of education development in the Philippines, particularly in improving access to digital infrastructure.

Through the DepEd Adopt-a-School Program, businesses can provide schools with resources ranging from classroom equipment and technology to teacher training and infrastructure improvements.

Khan Academy Philippines President and CEO Atty. Geraldine Acuña-Sunshine highlighted the importance of corporate partnerships in helping schools overcome implementation challenges. While the platform's educational resources remain free, organizations like Alsons Dev help provide the connectivity, devices, and training needed for schools to use those resources effectively.

For Alsons Dev, the initiative aligns with its broader community development efforts focused on expanding opportunities through education.

Company President and CEO Miguel Rene A. Dominguez said investing in education helps equip young learners with the knowledge and tools needed to pursue future opportunities while contributing to stronger communities.

The availability of tablets alone does not guarantee better learning outcomes. Reliable internet access, teacher readiness, and ongoing technical support are equally important for successful digital transformation in schools.

By committing to a three-year implementation period, the initiative recognizes that sustainable education technology programs require continuous investment rather than one-time equipment donations.

As more schools adopt blended and technology-assisted learning, partnerships between educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector may play an increasingly significant role in expanding digital education across the country.

Alsons Dev's partnership with Khan Academy Philippines demonstrates a broader approach to education support by combining technology, connectivity, educator training, and long-term implementation assistance.

Rather than focusing solely on device donations, the initiative aims to help public schools build lasting digital learning environments that can better support both students and teachers. As Philippine schools continue embracing educational technology, collaborations like this could help narrow the digital divide while improving access to quality learning resources.

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Why NTC Homeschool SmartClass Is Betting on Flexible Learning as the Future of Education

Why NTC Homeschool SmartClass Is Betting on Flexible Learning as the Future of Education

Sunday, July 26, 2026

The conversation around homeschooling in the Philippines has evolved significantly over the past few years. What was once considered an alternative education option has become a mainstream choice for many families seeking greater flexibility, personalized instruction, and learning environments that better fit their children's needs.

As demand grows, however, one question has become increasingly important: How do parents distinguish between homeschooling programs that simply deliver lessons online and those that provide a structured, recognized education?

The answer is becoming more relevant as families look beyond convenience and focus on academic quality, long-term learning outcomes, and educational continuity.

Homeschooling is growing but quality varies

The rise of homeschooling has been driven by several factors, including lessons learned during the pandemic, the expansion of digital learning technologies, and growing interest in personalized education.

For some families, homeschooling accommodates competitive athletes, young performers, entrepreneurs, or children with unique learning styles. Others value the flexibility to travel, relocate, or spend more time together without disrupting a child's education.

Yet homeschooling is not a single model. Programs differ in curriculum, teacher support, accreditation, assessment methods, and student engagement.

For parents, choosing a provider increasingly means evaluating not just flexibility but also credibility and long-term educational value.

NTC combines academic heritage with digital learning

The National Teachers' College, in collaboration with APEC Schools, has developed NTC Homeschool SmartClass, a DepEd-recognized online homeschooling program designed for Kindergarten through Grade 10 learners.

The initiative combines the National Teachers' College's decades of teacher education experience with APEC Schools' digital learning infrastructure.

Rather than positioning homeschooling as a substitute for traditional education, the program aims to provide a structured academic pathway that balances flexibility with recognized educational standards.

What makes the program different?

One of the program's distinguishing features is its learner-centered approach.

Instead of emphasizing memorization and standardized testing, NTC Homeschool SmartClass encourages students to demonstrate understanding through practical application, interdisciplinary learning, and project-based activities.

Among its key features are:

• DepEd-recognized curriculum that follows Philippine basic education standards.
• Flexible scheduling, allowing students to learn at their own pace while maintaining academic structure.
• 24/7 access to recorded lessons and learning materials.
• One-on-one consultations with Subject Matter Experts when additional guidance is needed.
• A collaborative support system involving parents, teachers, and academic coordinators.

The program also integrates social experiences such as field trips, meetups, and community activities, addressing one of the most common concerns associated with homeschooling: opportunities for peer interaction.

Rethinking student assessment

Traditional education often measures achievement through written examinations.

NTC Homeschool SmartClass introduces an alternative assessment called the Quarterly Learning Narrative Presentation (QLNP).

Rather than focusing solely on test scores, students present their learning journey, discussing academic achievements, challenges, and personal growth directly with their parents.

This approach places greater emphasis on communication skills, self-reflection, and ownership of learning—competencies that education experts increasingly recognize as valuable alongside academic performance.

Why flexible education is becoming a strategic investment

The growing interest in homeschooling reflects broader changes in education and the future workforce.

Employers increasingly value adaptability, collaboration, digital literacy, critical thinking, and lifelong learning alongside technical knowledge.

Educational models that encourage independent learning and self-management may help students develop these competencies earlier.

For parents, flexible education is also becoming a lifestyle decision.

Families balancing international travel, entrepreneurial work, creative careers, or specialized athletic training often require learning systems that adapt to their schedules rather than requiring schedules to revolve around school calendars.

Programs capable of combining academic credibility with this flexibility are likely to become increasingly relevant.

The business of alternative education

The expansion of structured homeschooling also reflects a broader shift within the education sector.

Private education providers are investing in digital platforms, learning technologies, and personalized instruction as demand diversifies beyond conventional classroom models.

Rather than replacing traditional schools, alternative education programs are expanding the range of learning pathways available to Filipino families.

For institutions with established academic reputations, this creates opportunities to extend their expertise into new delivery models while maintaining educational quality.

The bigger picture

Homeschooling is no longer simply about learning from home.

It has become part of a larger conversation about how education can better accommodate different learners, family circumstances, and future career demands.

NTC Homeschool SmartClass reflects this evolution by combining recognized academic standards with flexible delivery, personalized instruction, and digital learning tools.

As Filipino families continue exploring alternatives to traditional education, the conversation is shifting from whether homeschooling works to which homeschooling models are best equipped to prepare learners for the future.

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Coca-Cola, TESDA Launch Waste Management Training in Naga

Coca-Cola, TESDA Launch Waste Management Training in Naga

Wednesday, July 22, 2026

Managing solid waste has become one of the biggest governance challenges for Philippine local governments. While the country has long had a legal framework for ecological waste management, many communities continue to face practical obstacles in implementation, including limited technical expertise, inconsistent waste segregation practices, and insufficient local planning.

To help address these challenges, Coca-Cola Philippines, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the City Government of Naga, and the Camarines Sur Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (CASIFMAS) have launched the Solid Waste Management Operations (SWMO) Level III Training Program in Naga City.

The initiative marks the first official rollout under the expanded Trash Free Pilipinas Program (TFPP) framework and reflects a growing emphasis on developing green skills that strengthen environmental governance at the local level.

Why Is This Training Program Important?

The SWMO Level III Training Program is designed to equip frontline local government personnel with practical knowledge and nationally recognized competencies in ecological solid waste management.

Rather than focusing solely on waste collection, the curriculum covers the broader systems needed to improve waste management at the community level, including:

• Waste segregation systems
• Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) operations
• Barangay solid waste management planning
• Environmental education campaigns
• Enterprise development using recyclable materials
• Local policy formulation
• Community engagement strategies

Participants include barangay officials, LGU personnel, and environmental workers responsible for implementing waste management programs in their respective communities.

Addressing Capacity Gaps Under Republic Act 9003

The program responds to ongoing implementation challenges under Republic Act No. 9003, or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.

RA 9003 requires local government units (LGUs) to establish comprehensive waste management systems that prioritize waste reduction, segregation at source, recycling, composting, and the operation of Materials Recovery Facilities.

However, many LGUs continue to encounter obstacles such as limited technical expertise, insufficient training, and resource constraints that affect compliance.

By providing structured technical-vocational training, the SWMO Level III program seeks to strengthen the capabilities needed to translate policy requirements into consistent local action.

Why Naga City Was Chosen

Naga City became the first implementation site under the expanded Trash Free Pilipinas Program because of its established waste management initiatives and active community participation.

City officials expect the program to enhance the capabilities of barangay leaders and environmental workers while serving as a demonstration model that other LGUs can adapt.

Mayor Leni Robredo emphasized that strengthening the people responsible for implementing waste management programs is essential to improving consistency across communities.

For policymakers, the pilot also provides an opportunity to evaluate how technical training can improve local environmental outcomes before expanding the program nationally.

A Multi-Sector Partnership With Defined Roles

The initiative illustrates how public-private collaboration is increasingly being used to strengthen environmental governance.

Each partner contributes distinct expertise:

TESDA - Curriculum development, accreditation, training standards, and institutionalization

CASIFMAS - Local training delivery in Naga City

City Government of Naga - Training venue, participant coordination, and community support

Coca-Cola Philippines - Program framework development and implementation support

The partnership combines government leadership, academic expertise, and private sector support to build long-term institutional capacity rather than relying on one-time environmental campaigns.

From a Local Pilot to a National Green Skills Program

The Naga rollout builds on earlier work that began several years ago.

The Trash Free Pilipinas Program originated from consultations conducted by Coca-Cola Philippines in 2021, during which local officials identified persistent challenges in implementing RA 9003.

In response, Coca-Cola Philippines and TESDA developed a pilot training model that was first implemented in Angono, Rizal, in 2022.

That pilot combined classroom instruction, fieldwork, and community engagement, enabling participants to produce:

• Barangay solid waste management plans
• Information and education campaign materials
• Enterprise concepts
• Draft local ordinances

Since then, the initiative has expanded its pool of trainers, strengthened partnerships with local governments, and incorporated livelihood opportunities related to recycling and small enterprise development.

TESDA is now integrating the SWMO Level III program into its broader technical-vocational education offerings focused on green skills.

Why Green Skills Are Becoming a Strategic Priority

The launch reflects a broader trend in workforce development.

As governments and businesses place greater emphasis on sustainability, demand is increasing for workers with specialized environmental competencies.

Green skills now extend beyond renewable energy and climate technology to include waste management, resource recovery, circular economy practices, and environmental compliance.

For local governments, strengthening these competencies supports more effective public service delivery.

For workers, nationally recognized technical training may also create new career pathways in environmental management and sustainability-related industries.

Business Perspective: Sustainability Through Partnerships

For companies, sustainability initiatives are increasingly measured by their long-term impact rather than short-term environmental activities.

The collaboration between Coca-Cola Philippines, TESDA, academic institutions, and local government demonstrates how businesses can contribute to national development by supporting capacity-building programs that strengthen local institutions.

Rather than focusing solely on waste recovery, the initiative invests in developing the technical capabilities needed to sustain ecological solid waste management over time.

The launch of the Solid Waste Management Operations Level III Training Program in Naga City represents more than a local environmental initiative. It reflects a growing recognition that effective waste management depends on skilled people, capable institutions, and sustained collaboration across sectors.

As TESDA moves toward institutionalizing the program nationwide, the initiative could help strengthen compliance with RA 9003 while supporting the Philippines' broader transition toward a circular economy and greener workforce.

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LG Expands Global HVAC Academy Network

LG Expands Global HVAC Academy Network

Friday, July 10, 2026

As demand grows for smarter, more energy-efficient buildings, the need for skilled HVAC professionals has never been greater. To help meet that demand, LG Electronics HVAC Academy is expanding its global training network, giving technicians, partners, and industry professionals access to hands-on learning and the latest heating, ventilation, and air conditioning technologies.

The expansion reinforces LG's commitment to improving installation quality, after-sales service, and technical expertise across key markets, ensuring customers receive reliable HVAC solutions backed by well-trained professionals.

LG Expands Its Global HVAC Academy Network

LG Electronics recently announced the expansion of its HVAC Academy network, opening new facilities and upgrading existing training centers across Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa (MEA).

The initiative supports the company's broader Global South strategy by strengthening local expertise while creating more consistent service standards across international markets.

Today, LG operates around 70 HVAC Academies in more than 40 countries, making it one of the industry's largest technical training networks dedicated to heating and cooling solutions.

New Training Centers Open Across Asia

Asia continues to be an important region for LG's HVAC business expansion.

In June, the company launched a new HVAC Academy in Taichung, Taiwan, designed to provide customers and business partners with both product demonstrations and practical technical education.

The facility includes:

• Interactive product exhibition areas
• Modern classrooms
• Hands-on training spaces for HVAC installation and servicing

Meanwhile, LG also officially reopened its relocated Singapore HVAC Academy, featuring expanded training facilities and product displays.

One highlight of the new Singapore center is its showcase of advanced cooling technologies for data centers, including LG Coolant Distribution Units (CDUs), reflecting the growing demand for high-performance thermal management in digital infrastructure.

Europe Continues to Grow Its HVAC Training Capabilities

LG is also strengthening its presence across Europe by investing in regional technical education.

Among the newest additions is an HVAC Academy in Poland, which opened earlier this year.

The European academies provide HVAC installers and contractors with practical instruction covering:

• Air conditioning installation
• Heating system technologies
• Product maintenance
• Industry trends and evolving HVAC standards

By combining classroom learning with real-world applications, LG aims to help professionals stay updated as building technologies continue to evolve.

Investing in Future HVAC Professionals in Latin America and Africa

The expansion also extends to Latin America and Africa, where workforce development remains a key priority.

In Santiago, Chile, LG partnered with the Universidad de Santiago de Chile (USACH) to establish a new HVAC Academy that serves both engineering students and certified technicians.

The collaboration offers comprehensive technical education while helping prepare the next generation of HVAC professionals for the industry's changing demands.

Earlier this year, LG also opened a new academy in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire.

The facility features:

• An integrated HVAC showroom
• Technical classrooms
• Air Handling Unit (AHU)-based piping and control system training
• Dedicated engineering practice spaces

These resources allow technicians to gain valuable hands-on experience before working in the field.

Technical Training in Today's HVAC Industry

Modern HVAC systems are becoming increasingly sophisticated as buildings adopt smart controls, energy-efficient technologies, and sustainable cooling solutions.

For installers and service technicians, ongoing education plays a critical role in ensuring these systems perform efficiently throughout their lifecycle.

By expanding its HVAC Academy network, LG is investing not only in product knowledge but also in the people responsible for delivering quality installations, maintenance, and customer support around the world.

James Lee, president of the LG ES Company, emphasized the importance of building technical expertise alongside business growth.

"Strong installation and service capabilities are essential for delivering reliable HVAC solutions and long-term customer value. We will continue to expand our global network of HVAC Academies to strengthen local technical expertise, support workforce development, and build the service infrastructure needed for the continued growth of the LG HVAC business."

Building Stronger Service Through Education

As commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and data centers continue adopting advanced climate control technologies, technical expertise is becoming just as important as product innovation.

LG's growing network of HVAC Academies reflects a long-term investment in education, workforce development, and customer support. By equipping technicians with practical skills and up-to-date industry knowledge, the company is helping raise service standards while preparing professionals for the future of smart and sustainable building solutions.

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Samsung for Education Helps Philippine Schools Embrace Digital Learning

Samsung for Education Helps Philippine Schools Embrace Digital Learning

Friday, July 3, 2026

Technology continues to reshape how students learn and how teachers deliver lessons. Across the Philippines, schools are increasingly adopting digital tools to create more engaging, inclusive, and future-ready classrooms. But successful digital transformation goes beyond providing devices. It also requires teacher training, secure technology, and long-term support.

Recognizing this growing need, Samsung Electronics Philippines has introduced the Samsung for Education Program, a comprehensive initiative designed to help schools strengthen digital learning through education-ready devices, professional development for educators, and a structured recognition program for schools embracing technology in the classroom.

Samsung Launches a Comprehensive Education Program for Filipino Schools

As government initiatives continue expanding information and communications technology (ICT) access across Philippine schools, Samsung aims to complement these efforts by providing an integrated ecosystem that supports both educators and students.

Rather than focusing solely on hardware, the Samsung for Education Program combines digital devices, learning resources, teacher development, and school recognition to help institutions build sustainable digital learning environments.

According to Carl Nordenberg, Vice President and Regional Head of Mobile eXperience Business for Samsung Electronics Southeast Asia and Oceania, empowering educators is central to the company's vision.

"At Samsung, we believe that technology should empower people. In education, this means creating an ecosystem where teachers feel supported, schools are digitally ready, and students are engaged to learn with confidence. Our vision is to help schools in our region prepare for the future, ensuring every learner feels empowered and every teacher feels supported."

Education-Ready Devices Designed for Modern Classrooms

At the heart of the program are Samsung Galaxy devices designed to support interactive and collaborative learning.

Teachers and students can take advantage of Galaxy Tab devices paired with the S Pen, Samsung Notes, and Galaxy AI to enhance note-taking, lesson delivery, collaboration, and productivity both inside and outside the classroom.

To help schools maintain secure learning environments, every device also comes with Samsung Knox, the company's enterprise-grade security platform. This built-in protection helps safeguard school data, supports secure assessments, and gives teachers, students, and parents greater confidence when using digital learning tools.

Helping Teachers Build Digital Confidence

Technology can only make a meaningful impact when educators feel confident using it.

Through the Samsung Learning Hub, the program offers structured professional development that helps teachers integrate technology into everyday classroom instruction.

Educators can access:

• Practical training modules for digital teaching
• Lesson planning strategies using technology
• Professional certificates that recognize completed training
• Curated educational resources from learning partners

Samsung also extends support beyond online learning by providing professional development frameworks for teachers and school leaders, helping schools strengthen digital competency across their entire organization.

Recognizing Schools That Lead Digital Transformation

To encourage continuous improvement, Samsung has introduced a recognition pathway that celebrates schools at different stages of digital adoption.

Samsung School

Schools that have successfully incorporated technology into daily classroom learning can earn recognition as a Samsung School, acknowledging their progress toward meaningful digital transformation.

Samsung Digital Lighthouse School

Schools demonstrating advanced integration of technology into teaching, learning, and school operations may achieve Samsung Digital Lighthouse School status.

These schools are recognized for having certified educators, measurable learning outcomes, and a culture of sharing best practices with the wider education community.

Supporting Inclusive and Future-Ready Education in the Philippines

Digital transformation is becoming an essential part of preparing students for an increasingly technology-driven world.

By combining secure devices, teacher training, ongoing professional development, and school recognition, the Samsung for Education Program aims to support the Philippines' vision of creating more inclusive, connected, and future-ready learning environments.

As more schools embrace digital education, initiatives like this can help educators maximize technology's potential while ensuring students develop the skills and confidence needed for the future.

Educational institutions interested in exploring digital transformation partnerships with Samsung Electronics Philippines can contact the company to learn more about the Samsung for Education Program and its available resources.

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