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The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) is leveraging its social development arm, BPI Foundation (BPIF), to cultivate a more financially literate future generation through a partnership with the Department of Science and Technology – Science and Technology Information Institute (DOST-STII).
(L-R): DOST-STII’s Arlene Centeno, Chief, Finance & Administrative Division; Rodolfo de Guzman, Chief, Communication Resources & Production Division; and Alan Taule, Chief, Information Resources & Analysis Division; with BPIF’s Carmina Marquez, Executive Director; Joy Reniva, Associate Director; and Melanie Magbuhos, Program Manager for Enterprise Development Livelihood & Special Projects.The collaboration will distribute STARBOOKS-enabled technology – including 37 computer units, three smart TVs, and nine tablet PCs – to 40 public schools nationwide.
This initiative underscores a growing understanding within the business community that investing in financial literacy is not just a philanthropic endeavor but a strategic move towards building a more stable and prosperous economic environment. The STARBOOKS program, by integrating financial education with scientific learning, aims to equip students with the practical skills needed for sound financial decision-making alongside critical scientific knowledge.
For BPI, this partnership represents a long-term investment in its future customer base and the overall economic health of the Philippines. Financially literate individuals are more likely to engage with financial institutions responsibly, contributing to a more robust and stable financial system.
STARBOOKS-enabled learning hubs will equip students with essential financial literacy and scientific knowledge, helping them make informed decisions and inspiring a passion for learning.The STARBOOKS program will provide access to BPIF’s FinEd Unboxed Journals, specifically designed to introduce students to fundamental concepts of money management. Combined with the vast scientific resources of STARBOOKS, this initiative aims to create well-rounded individuals prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
Building on the success of a previous distribution in 2024 that benefited over 17,000 students and teachers across 21 provinces/cities, this expanded partnership demonstrates BPIF’s ongoing commitment to education as a key driver of national progress.
“Through this partnership, we are not just providing technology—we are empowering students with knowledge that can transform their future,” said Carmina Marquez, BPI Foundation Executive Director.
“By making financial education more accessible, we are equipping young minds with the skills they need to make informed financial choices and become active contributors to their communities. This initiative reflects our commitment to ‘Kasama Lahat sa Pag-Unlad’—ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey towards progress,” Marquez added.
This collaboration highlights the increasing role of corporate social responsibility in addressing fundamental societal needs. By focusing on education and financial literacy, BPIF is not only fulfilling its social mandate but also contributing to a more economically resilient and engaged citizenry, ultimately creating a more favorable business environment in the long run.
