As the Philippines grapples with a learning crisis that has exposed longstanding gaps in literacy, numeracy, and access to quality education, Metrobank Foundation Inc. (MBFI) and its partners have been expanding efforts to address challenges across the learning continuum.
The foundation’s education initiatives increasingly align with the priority areas identified by the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II), focusing on foundational learning, access to resources, improved learning environments, and support for teachers.
One of the most urgent concerns in Philippine education is functional literacy—the ability to understand, process, and apply information from what is read. Without strong literacy skills developed in the early years, learners often struggle across subjects as they progress through school.
To help strengthen these foundations, MBFI partnered with Binhi English Literacy Foundation Inc. to implement an after-school remediation program for kindergarten and Grade 1 learners. The initiative focused on improving reading comprehension and early literacy skills, producing gains that exceeded program targets. Kindergarten learners posted an average improvement of 63.6%, while Grade 1 learners improved by 53.3%. Participants also developed core competencies in letter recognition, phonics, spelling, and early writing.
Alongside literacy, numeracy remains a critical challenge for many Filipino students. Difficulties with mathematics often lead to anxiety and low confidence, creating barriers that can affect overall academic performance.
To address this, MBFI launched Metrobank Foundation SOLUTION (Support for Optimal Learning and Understanding To Improve Overall Numeracy) last year. The program promotes learner-centered approaches designed to close learning gaps, strengthen mathematical understanding, and reduce fear of numbers.
Its pilot implementation at San Miguel Heights Elementary School in Valenzuela delivered encouraging results. Students recorded an average 26% increase in numeracy scores, while 95.4% demonstrated measurable improvement. The program also helped reduce math anxiety among 64.2% of participating learners, contributing to greater confidence and classroom engagement.
While learning outcomes depend heavily on foundational skills, access to basic educational resources remains a challenge in many public schools, particularly in remote and underserved communities.
Over the years, MBFI and its partners have provided learning kits, printed and digital modules, photocopiers, radios, computers, and other essential tools to help bridge resource gaps. In 2021, in coordination with the Department of Education (DepEd), the foundation donated printers to 45 public schools across the divisions of Laguna, Iloilo, and Davao del Norte, including schools located in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.
To date, more than ₱8.4 million worth of learning equipment and supplies have been distributed, helping teachers deliver lessons more effectively while expanding students’ access to educational materials.
The quality of learning is also shaped by the spaces where students study. Recognizing this, the foundation continues to invest in infrastructure that supports teaching and learning, including classrooms, libraries, and reading facilities.
This year, MBFI pledged ₱11.5 million to DepEd for the construction of classrooms in last-mile schools, helping improve conditions for learners in hard-to-reach communities.
Creating safe and healthy learning environments has also been a priority. Through a partnership with Radio Mindanao Network Foundation, Manila Water Foundation, and World Vision Development Foundation Inc., MBFI provided ₱1.8 million for the construction of handwashing facilities in schools and communities nationwide, particularly in underserved areas. The facilities promote better hygiene, help prevent illness, and support regular school attendance.
Beyond investments in students and school infrastructure, the foundation continues to champion teachers, whose role remains central to improving educational outcomes.
The foundation’s work also extends beyond basic education. It supports early childhood development through grants and feeding programs that prepare children for school readiness. These interventions include nutrition support for pregnant and lactating mothers and children aged 0 to 5, guided by research highlighting the importance of the first 1,000 days of life in brain development and lifelong learning. Together with its partners, the programs have reached thousands of mothers and young children.
MBFI has led the National Teachers’ Month movement since launching the Teachers’ Month Campaign in 2008. Through partner-driven programs, the initiative provides recognition, engagement opportunities, and professional support for educators. These efforts help sustain teacher morale while reinforcing the profession’s importance in shaping future generations.
At the tertiary level, the Metrobank Scholarship Program continues to provide financial assistance and mentorship to college students. For more than three decades, the program has supported thousands of scholars nationwide. This school year, 150 new scholarships will be awarded across 15 partner universities.
As education stakeholders seek solutions to reverse learning losses and improve outcomes nationwide, MBFI continues to work alongside government agencies, schools, and community partners to deliver evidence-based interventions. By strengthening foundational skills, expanding access to resources, supporting teachers, and improving learning environments, the foundation aims to help build a more resilient and inclusive education system for future generations.
Through these and other initiatives, MBFI continues to expand its role in advancing social development across the country. Established on January 8, 1979 by the late Dr. George S.K. Ty, founder of Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company (Metrobank), Metrobank Foundation is the social development arm of the Metrobank Group. Guided by its “Excel. Engage. Empower.” roadmap, it works with partners to create opportunities and deliver lasting impact through programs in education, leadership, arts and culture, disaster response, and community development.
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