May 15, 2025, Bulacan Philippines — The Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Sta. Maria, Bulacan (PUP-SMB) campus is taking a significant step in campus-based renewable energy efforts through a new community-owned solar initiative.
PUP-Manila students and 350 Pilipinas visited the PUP-Sta Maria Campus
Jawo Jayme, campus engagement campaigner from 350 Pilipinas, joined students from the Electrical Engineering Technology and Computer Programming Engineering Technology programs in meeting with PUP SMB Campus Director Dr. Arman DC. Santos to discuss the potential installation of a solar-powered charging station last May 15, 2025.
A photo during a meeting with 350 Pilipinas, and PUP-Manila students, and PUP-SMB to discuss an upcoming collaboration. They are welcomed by PUP-SMB Director Dr. Arman DC. Santos
We have been collaborating with the university on movement organizing, focusing on how communities can lead and create sustainable energy solutions. The visit to PUP Sta Maria highlight the dedication of students to the continuous development of practical renewable energy (RE) solutions and with faculty and administrators, they play a crucial role in implementing and replicating these projects in communities—such as extending them to another PUP branch.
A student from PUP-Manila presented their design and concept of a solar charging station for PUP-SMB.
Building sustainable campuses goes beyond creating infrastructure; it is only the first step. More importantly, it encourages a deeper commitment to ensuring that the skills from the community, serves the community.
The project is envisioned as a collaborative effort led by the PUP community and the Institute of Technology, empowering students and faculty to take an active role in addressing the climate crisis through tangible and scalable solutions.
“It demonstrates how educational institutions can take meaningful steps toward climate resilience”
Jayme emphasized how institutions can take the lead in ensuring that their communities are able to adapt. “This initiative is a significant milestone for us and for PUP as a whole. It demonstrates how educational institutions can take meaningful steps toward climate resilience especially as worsening environmental conditions continue to force school suspensions or transitions to virtual learning, which ultimately affects educational quality.” He noted
A group photo in front of the Polytechnic University of The Philippines satellite campus in Sta. Maria Bulacan with 350 Pilipinas, and PUP-Manila students, and PUP-SMB and campus director, Dr. Arman DC. Santos
The proposed solar-powered charging station aims not only to provide sustainable energy on campus but also to serve as an educational tool, fostering awareness and innovation among students. The initiative also serves as a call to action, encouraging other schools and government institutions to develop and support renewable energy programs through proper planning and resource allocation.
With projects like this, PUP continues to show how local adoption of climate solutions can contribute to a more sustainable future.