Establishment of the 60th All-Lights Village in Purok 7, Barangay Putingkahoy, Rosario, Batangas.
On March 24, 2026, the Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Philippines achieved a significant milestone by establishing its 60th All-Lights Village in Purok 7, Barangay Putingkahoy, Rosario, Batangas. Through its All-Lights Village Program, the organization extended its reach to a remote, off-grid, geographically isolated and disadvantaged area (GIDA), bringing sustainable lighting solutions to 100 households, including families from the indigenous Aeta community.
The initiative introduced solar lanterns for individual households and installed 10 solar-powered streetlights across the village. These interventions are already transforming daily life by enhancing safety within the community, allowing families to remain productive after dark, and giving children the opportunity to continue their studies in the evening.
This achievement reflects the strength of collaboration among key partners, including BLESS Microfinance Corporation, the Local Government Unit of Rosario, Batangas, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development Region IV-A. Their joint efforts highlight the impact of coordinated action in reaching underserved populations and addressing critical development gaps.
According to Mr. Leonard Faustino, Executive Director of GPF Philippines, providing access to light goes far beyond infrastructure. He emphasized that it is about restoring dignity, strengthening access to education, and opening doors to greater opportunities for families. His remarks reflect a broader understanding that basic services like lighting can serve as a foundation for human development.
Establishment of the 60th All-Lights Village in Purok 7, Barangay Putingkahoy, Rosario, Batangas.
This perspective is shared by partners who continue to champion community-centered solutions. Ms. Marie Beatrice Mendoza, President and CEO of BLESS Microfinance Corporation, noted that meaningful development occurs when investments are directed toward people and communities, reinforcing the importance of sustainability and long-term impact.
At the grassroots level, the benefits are deeply felt. Hon. Rowel S. Gamab, Chairman of Barangay Putingkahoy, expressed that the project brings not only light but also renewed hope to the community. For many residents, especially Aeta families, the improvements contribute to safer surroundings and a more stable daily life.
Local leadership has also echoed the importance of inclusive growth. Hon. Leovigildo K. Morpe, Mayor of Rosario, highlighted that partnerships of this nature play a vital role in ensuring that development reaches every sector of society. Supporting this, Ms. Veronica T. Menguito of the DSWD 4Ps Provincial Operations Office observed that initiatives like the All-Lights Village Program complement social protection efforts by enhancing living conditions and encouraging pathways toward self-reliance.
The launch of the 60th All-Lights Village signals the continued advancement of a proven development model led by the Global Peace Foundation. Grounded in service, shared responsibility, and the vision of One Family under God, the All-Lights Village initiative has evolved from simply addressing energy scarcity into a comprehensive platform for community transformation. By bringing together local governments, national agencies, and grassroots institutions, GPF Philippines ensures that access to solar lighting becomes an entry point for tackling wider challenges, bridging education gaps, improving safety, and unlocking livelihood opportunities.
Establishment of the 60th All-Lights Village in Purok 7, Barangay Putingkahoy, Rosario, Batangas.
As GPF continues to expand this work, each village illuminated becomes part of a growing movement of empowered communities contributing to inclusive national development.
Learn more about how the All-Lights Village model is transforming communities and advancing development through service, and explore how you can support this work: Illuminating Communities: GPF Philippines’ All-Lights Village Model Advances Development and Service
