CONCEPCION, Tarlac (Dec. 4, 2025) – In a continued commitment to advancing education, the SM Foundation has inaugurated a state-of-the-art Digital Learning Hub at Jefmin Elementary School in Concepcion, Tarlac. This ceremony follows last month’s turnover of a new two-storey, four-classroom building by the foundation, marking another significant milestone in uplifting the school’s infrastructure.
The newly launched DigiHub is the first of its kind in the province of Tarlac and is equipped with 20 desktop computers donated by SM Home. The donation was formalized through a Deed of Donation signed by SM Prime, SM Home, and SM Foundation. The facility is set to benefit 770 learners at the school.
The event was attended by key officials including Ms. Carmen Linda Atayde, SM Foundation Executive Director for Education Programs; Ms. Rina Castro, Mall Manager of SM City Tarlac; Engr. Ezra Oribello; Ms. Jam Torio; Mrs. Anthonette G. Lampa, Principal III of Jefmin Elementary School; Dr. Lourdes Dela Cruz, Assistant Schools Division Superintendent; Dr. Paulino De Pano of the Curriculum and Implementation Division; Dr. Nicolasa Camaya, Public Schools District Supervisor of Concepcion West District; Ms. Roxan Batoc, Area Head of SM Home; Marcelo Antonio, SPTA President; and Engr. Ronaldo Gutierrez, Barangay Secretary.
In her remarks, Ma’am Anthonette Lampa expressed deep gratitude: “We are lucky here in Concepcion because we are the only ones blessed with this so far. This used to be just a dream—to have an SM school building. I hoped that before I retire, our school would receive such a gift. Now, not only do we have the building, but also a digital learning hub. This will benefit everyone.”
Ms. Carmen Linda Atayde highlighted the project’s intent: “We noticed that in private schools, students have access to gadgets both in school and at home. We believe public school students deserve the same, but devices are lacking. This SM project is our solution. We want you to prepare for the future now, not in high school. This is the best tool to start with.”
Dr. Lourdes Dela Cruz thanked SM for its sustained partnership and urged teachers to commit to concrete actions. “This should translate into learning outcomes, increasing literacy and numeracy levels. Jefmin is fortunate to have partners like SM Foundation and SM Home. We will value this amid society’s noise and challenges, and we assure you it will not become a burden.”
Ms. Rina Castro reflected on the consecutive milestones: “Last month, we witnessed the building inauguration, and now the digital learning hub. We are here again to see SM’s aim to provide reliable tools for students.”
Dr. Nicolasa Camaya emphasized the broader impact: “This is a very big thing for parents—a dream come true. With these efforts, I’m sure their aspirations will be fulfilled. SM has truly delivered on its promise. This is the greatest investment I have seen, benefiting not only today’s learners but also generations to come.”
Teacher Jeri Micka Sanggalang, the ICT teacher and Digital Hub in-charge, shared the students’ enthusiasm: “The students really need this for their subjects. Before, we only had one PC and one TV, and students could only use them one by one. We are so thankful to have this now. The children are very excited, asking when they can move in, who will sit first, they are eagerly asking when they can start using the computers.”
The ceremony also featured the formal signing of a Deed of Donation by representatives from SM Prime, SM Home, and SM Foundation, solidifying their shared commitment to educational advancement. In recognition of their transformative contribution, the SM group was presented with a Plaque of Recognition by the school community.
The event culminated in the unveiling of a commemorative marker installed at the entrance of the new Digital Learning Hub, a permanent testament to the partnership and the day’s milestone.
This initiative at Jefmin Elementary School underscores the SM Foundation’s expanding mission to empower public education across the Philippines. Through a focus on critical infrastructure, modern technology, and teacher training, the foundation continues to champion inclusive and future-ready learning for all Filipino students.
