Bayanihan in Action:
Building Better Schools Together
"It takes a village to raise a child and it takes an entire community to build a better school."
Today, Oro Integrated Cooperative, through its Community and Social Relations (CSR) arm, the OIC Ginintuang Puso Program, proudly joined the Regional Kick-Off of the Brigada Eskwela 2026 for Region X at Balubal Elementary School, Cagayan de Oro City.
The event brought together government leaders, educators, community partners, and volunteers in a powerful demonstration of unity and shared responsibility for education. We were honored to participate alongside distinguished guests and speakers including Department of Education Undersecretary Atty. Gerard L. Chan; Hon. Rolando A. Uy, City Mayor of Cagayan de Oro represented by City Administrator Atty. Roy Raagas; Ruth L. Fuentes, CESO III, Regional Director of DepEd Region X; Hon. Paolo Niccolo Gaane and Hon. Gigi Go, City Councilors; and other education leaders, local officials, and development partners.
Representing OIC during this meaningful occasion were Chairperson Raul Pregon, CEO Floriano Hilot, and Community and Social Relations Head Joie Saquilayan, reaffirming the cooperative's commitment to helping create safe, conducive, and inspiring learning environments for Filipino learners.
Event Gallery
Moments from the Field
For OIC, Brigada Eskwela is more than a volunteer activity; it is one of the flagship programs of the OIC Ginintuang Puso, reflecting our belief that education is one of the most powerful investments a community can make. While OIC is known for delivering quality financial services, our mission extends far beyond finance.
We remain steadfast in improving the quality of life of our members and communities, especially our schools where future leaders, professionals, and nation-builders are nurtured.
OIC Educational Initiatives Through the Years
- Construction and support of mobile classrooms in Macapaya-Camaman-an, Bugsoc, Pinagsagsagan, Kibanog, and Sto. Niño, Manolo Fortich
- Support for 10 Public High School Teen Centers across Cagayan de Oro City
- Construction of a stage at Mabunga Elementary School in Baungon, Bukidnon
- Brigada Eskwela assistance to 48 schools across Visayas and Mindanao branches
- Educational support for schools throughout Northern Mindanao
- Many other projects that continue to enhance learning opportunities for young Filipinos
These initiatives embody the true spirit of cooperativism — people helping people, communities helping communities, and organizations working together for a common good.
As we join hands with DepEd, local government units, private partners, and fellow volunteers, we continue to invest in education because stronger schools build stronger communities, and stronger communities create a brighter future for all.
Together, we move forward on the path to #WhereFinancialFreedomBegins.
