In 2016, Standard Chartered Bank (SCB), together with the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP), and in partnership with the Department of Education (DepEd) and municipality of Catbalogan, Samar, recently launched the Banca ng Buhay program. The initiative provided fiberglass fishing boats to 38 fisherfolks and their wives in communities impacted by Typhoon Haiyan in 2013, and Typhoon Ruby in 2014. The communities were also given capability training and seed money by SCB to start a small business. “The uniqueness of the Banca ng Buhay program does not only improve the family income but it also addresses the needs of the students,” said DepEd Catbalogan superintendent Cris Eco said: “This school year, we saw an increase in the rate of high school enrolment and zero drop-out rate.” Added SCB corporate affairs head Mai Sangalang: “it is very humbling to see a simple act of kindness – 38 boats will have these much impact not only to these 38 families but also be instrumental in fulfilling these students’ dreams.”