ILOILO City – MORE Electric and Power Corporation (MORE Power) has partnered with the Philippine Science High School – Western Visayas Campus (PSHS-WVC) to establish a seedling nursery at the school’s Barangay Bito-on campus in Jaro district.
The initiative was formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed by MORE Power president and chief executive officer Roel Z. Castro and PSHS-WVC director Dr. Myrna Libutaque.
This collaboration marks a milestone for both institutions, aligning with MORE Power’s fifth anniversary and PSHS-WVC’s 33rd Foundation Day. It strengthens MORE Power’s reforestation efforts by providing a dedicated space for growing and nurturing seedlings, with active participation from students and faculty.
During the MOA signing, Castro spoke directly to the students, encouraging them to recognize the value of education and use it as a tool for transformation.
“You are in a privileged position to receive quality education. Many students across the country struggle to afford schooling, but you have the opportunity to learn, grow, and make a difference. Use it wisely, not just for yourself, but for your families, your communities, and the environment,” he said.
He added: “Education has the power to change lives. I have met many students who had the potential but lacked the resources to continue their studies. That’s why, beyond just providing electricity, MORE Power wants to help build a future where every student has the chance to succeed.”
The seedling nursery will serve as a sustainable source of healthy seedlings for MORE Power’s tree-growing projects. More than just an environmental initiative, it will be a learning hub where students can engage in seedling propagation, tree care, and conservation efforts.
The project includes establishing a dedicated nursery space for growing indigenous and high-demand plant species, installing a watering system to ensure proper irrigation and minimize water waste, and encouraging student and faculty participation in maintaining the nursery as part of their educational and community outreach programs.
Dr. Libutaque expressed gratitude for MORE Power’s support, emphasizing how the partnership aligns with the school’s commitment to alternative learning opportunities.
“This initiative not only supports environmental conservation but also enhances our students’ educational experiences,” she said.
She recognized the potential for future collaborations, particularly in science, technology, and energy-related research.
“The theme of our Foundation Day, ‘Sharing the Power of Science, Technology, and Innovation for All,’ perfectly aligns with this partnership, and we welcome MORE Power’s participation in strengthening science education,” Libutaque added.
MORE Power’s mission extends beyond providing reliable electricity, it is about empowering communities, fostering environmental consciousness, and nurturing future sustainability leaders. This partnership serves as a testament to the power of collaboration in building a more sustainable and environmentally conscious generation./PN
