BDO Life brings solar lamps to IP communities

More than 1,000 Dumagat-Remontado families in the mountainous areas of Quezon are set to benefit from a solar lighting initiative aimed at improving daily life in off-grid communities, as BDO Life marks its 50th anniversary with a program that combines financial protection with community development.

Through its “Lights for Life” campaign, BDO Life has partnered with One Million Lights Philippines and BDO Foundation to provide solar lamps to indigenous households that continue to live without electricity.

Under the initiative, BDO Life donates ₱500 for every qualified life insurance policy purchased to help fund the distribution of solar lamps to families living beyond the reach of the power grid.

The program seeks to address the everyday challenges faced by members of the Dumagat-Remontado tribe, whose livelihoods depend mainly on river fishing, vegetable farming, and copra production. Without electricity, many families rely on makeshift lamps fueled by almaciga resin, while children often struggle to continue studying after sunset.

“Sa mga mag-aaral naman, pagdating nila sa bahay, hindi na rin nila nagagawa ‘yung mga aralin nila, dahil walang ilaw,” said tribal chieftain Myra Dela Cruz.

For Barangay Councilor Liezel Sarmiento, also a member of the Dumagat-Remontado tribe, access to even a simple source of light can make a significant difference in everyday life.

“Kahit sa simpleng ilaw, mabibigyan tayo ng liwanag,” Sarmiento said.

BDO Life said the initiative reflects its broader commitment to extending the benefits of its business beyond policyholders by supporting underserved communities. Aside from providing safer lighting at night, the solar lamps are expected to give families more time for livelihood activities, household chores, and children’s education while reducing dependence on traditional fuel-based lighting.