In the spirit of giving back to the community, the Bank Operations Group (BOG) participated in Department of Education’s (DepEd) Brigada Eskwela 2016 last June 4 in partnership with Employee Relations Council. Armed with painting tools and the passion to make a difference, over 35 volunteers went to Ricardo P. Cruz Elementary School in Lower Bicutan to paint rooms, cabinets, chairs, and help prepare classrooms for school opening.

Bank Operations Group at the school entrance with the school's principal Ms. Maritess Asuque (in light blue polo shirt).

 

“We chose to do Brigada Eskwela because we want to do an activity that is timely; one that will directly help the community. We know that a clean and well-maintained classroom promotes a positive learning atmosphere to help students learn better. Future leaders are honed in the four corners of the classroom,” said Josh Orofino of the Collateral Administration Unit of Bank Operations.

Brigada Eskwela is an annual project of the Department of Education where teachers, parents, students, the business community and civic organizations participate in the clean-up and repair of public schools and its surrounding areas.

According to Ruby Afable, Treasury Operations Manager, “Brigada Eskwela was extremely exciting for me, especially that it was my first time to participate. It made me realize that tasks get accomplished easier and faster when done as a team. Doing things together is more fun as well. Sharing our time is just as valuable as sharing our wealth. We were tired, but it was worth the effort and very fulfilling. I look forward to more exciting community involvement in BOG. Hindi nakakasawang gawin!”This is the first of many more community activities we will have – fun and meaningful and meant to strengthen the ties that bind, says Melise Arnaldo, SVP and Cluster Head, Operations and Technology.


Gelo Fabella, head of Consumer Loans giving the cabinets a fresh coat of paint.

BOG volunteers working together in painting the Science room.