The Makati City government has announced it will install solar panels in all public schools in the city to promote a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable community.
During the Brigada Eskwela at Comembo Elementary School on Wednesday, Mayor Abigail Binay said her administration wants to be the pioneer in using renewable energy to power public schools and local government offices.
She said that the use of solar panels will significantly cut down energy consumption and costs while pushing the city’s advocacy for sustainability and lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the country’s premier financial district.
Binay said that by having its own source of energy, the city can continue to supply electrical power to schools and offices even during calamities. This is also helpful during the summer months when the supply in the metropolis is low.
Binay said the installation of solar panels in public schools can be done in batches and that Comembo Elementary School will be one of the pilot sites. Makati City has 25 elementary schools, 10 junior high schools, and 8 senior high schools which would benefit from the use of solar panels.
She said said switching to solar energy is a long-term commitment and requires careful study because of its social and economic benefits. This, according to her, is a good example for the youth so they could become more conscious of the environmental impact of fossil fuel use and greenhouse emissions.
Meanwhile, Binay thanked the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, Rotary Club of Makati, Lakambini ng Comembo and barangay councilors of Comembo for donating bicycles to the school. A total of 17 units were initially turned over to the school during the ceremony.
The Brigada Eskwela activity also included the traditional cleaning and repainting of classrooms in preparation for the coming academic year.
Earlier, Binay announced that the local government will be rolling out a program for the use of electric buses in the city.
On August 3, she signed an agreement with officials of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) to establish a smart public transport system.
KOICA will provide $13 million in funds to cover the design and construction of an electric vehicle bus depot, control tower, and electric vehicle buses. It will also finance the management of the automatic fare collection system, fleet management system, and mobile passenger information system.
The advanced and eco-friendly public transport system is in line with Makati’s efforts to become a truly smart city. Makati’s intra-city subway is set to be completed in 2025.
