Manila Bulletin Publishing Corporation
original article
By Jonas Reyes
Published: May 17, 2013
NEW FLASHLIGHTS – Aetas pose along with representatives from Energizer Philippines and One Million Lights Philippines after getting new Energizer solar-powered LED lights during an outreach program on Thursday. The program between the Energizer Philippines and One Million Lights Philippines aims to provide off-the-grid indigenous communities access to clean lighting by giving 300 solar-powered LED lights. (Jonas Reyes)
OLONGAPO CITY – In a collaborated effort, Energizer Philippines and One Million Lights (OML) Philippines recently distributed 300 solar-powered LED flashlights to the indigenous communities of Zambales.
According to Energizer Philippines brand manager Joan Mendoza, “When we began this project with OML, we really aimed at touching as many lives as we can through our safe, sustainable and eco-friendly lighting.”
She added, “By providing these off-the-grid indigenous communities access to clean lighting, we would be able to alleviate the social burden they go through every day. We hope this will translate to better opportunities for the families here and aid their children with their education.”
“We are deeply grateful for the strong support from Energizer,” says Mark Lozano, country head of OML Phil. He added, “They provided us with clean and efficient solar-powered lights which offered much needed aid to our beneficiaries.”
“Energizer has enabled us to fulfill our goal to make a difference in society through an affordable, safe and environmentally sustainable manner. We look forward to spreading more ‘positive energy’ among Filipinos for years to come,” he added.
With the help of local civic group Social Action Center of Zambales, the Energizer team and the OML group donated these solar-powered flashlights to five areas in Zambales, namely: Sta Rita in Olongapo; Tralala in Olongapo; San Felipe Town; Mapalad; and the Town of Botolan.
According to Mendoza, these solar-powered LED flashlights have the capacity to provide more than three hours of light after five hours of charging under direct sunlight.
Through the donation, the company estimates that some 2,000 off-the-grid individuals will benefit from these flashlights. The company has already distributed similar lights to communities in Kalinga, Apayao, Ifugao, Mountain Province, Catanduanes, Mindoro, Eastern Samar, and Rizal.
After a week-long distribution of 180 solar lights, Light Ambassador Sierra Fan reflects on her experience in the Philippines.
The absolute joy in the face of a child who has just received his very own solar light… so that he can read at night… is 100% worth every penny.
Ambassador Jessica Matthys: The solar lanterns will make a significant impact on these women‘s lives.
