Chapter 1
INTRODUCTION
Situation Analysis
Education has long been recognized as a cornerstone of national progress in the Philippines, yet it continues to face persistent challenges that hinder equitable access and quality learning. Many public schools across the country suffer from overcrowded classrooms, deteriorating facilities, and insufficient learning materials. Rural and disadvantaged communities, in particular, experience acute shortages of classrooms and educational resources, resulting in learning gaps and limited opportunities for students. While the Department of Education and local government units have made efforts to address these issues, the scale of need remains immense, requiring the support of other government agencies and private institutions. This situation underscores the importance of collaborative initiatives that channel additional funding and infrastructure support toward the education sector, ensuring that every Filipino child has access to a conducive learning environment.
“Bet On Learning – Chips To Classroom”, is PAGCOR’s commitment to transforming gaming revenues into tangible investments in Philippine education. Through its corporate social responsibility programs, PAGCOR channels proceeds from its operations to build and renovate school facilities, provide classrooms, and support learning environments where children can thrive.
Education is widely regarded as a fundamental right and a powerful tool for social mobility, especially in the Philippines where it is viewed as a key to breaking the cycle of poverty. For many families, especially in the Philippines, it's the most powerful tool they can give on their children's future, a way to escape the grip of poverty. This core principle is increasingly being harmonized with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a comprehensive framework addressing global challenges. Specifically, many corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives in the country are aligning with SDG 4 (Quality Education) which focuses on providing inclusive and equitable quality education for all. By undertaking projects such as improving school infrastructure, offering scholarships, and supporting teacher training programs, these efforts directly contribute to closing educational disparities in marginalized communities and developing the human capital needed for a prosperous future (JCI Manila, n.d.).
https://doi.org/10.65494/pinagpalapublishing.104
