A young Filipino is leading efforts to bring digital tools and internet access to far-flung schools — and his next stop is Marawi.
Bran Reluao, founder of RepublicAsia and a proud Gen Z advocate, seeks to bring “Pay IT Forward: A Digital Transformation Advocacy” to the country’s southern region.
The program provides gadgets, internet devices, and training to schools that need them most.
On Friday, RepublicAsia inked a memorandum of agreement with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), iACADEMY, GMA Kapuso Foundation, and Sparkle GMA Artist Center to bring the initiative to Marawi City.
“Why Marawi? Because digital access remains a real challenge in the area,” Reluao said.
“Marawi, a city still rebuilding from conflict, deserves more than just infrastructure — it deserves empowerment. And for that, we bring tools, training, and most importantly, hope.”
“Digital transformation should not be a privilege but a right accessible to all. By providing tools and training to underserved schools, we are creating a foundation for a digitally empowered future,” he added.
Earlier this month, the first leg of the program was launched in Cebu, where students from eight remote schools received free tablets and Starlink internet.
“Our mission has always been to make digital learning more accessible for all,” Reluao said.
“We believe that true transformation happens when public and private sectors come together with a common goal.”
He also thanked DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, who hails from Mindanao, for her support.
Pangandaman recognized the initiative as an opportunity to invest in education and the country’s future.
“It is my great honor and privilege to join all of you today and take part in the launch of Pay IT Forward, a digital transformation advocacy. This initiative represents a significant step toward advancing our education system through digital empowerment,” she said.
“I really thought that we really need to keep doing something, investing on education and our children to ensure our future. So that’s the best legacy that we can leave behind,” she added.
Senior Vice President of GMA Network Annette Gozon-Valdez expressed gratitude for the inclusion of Kapuso Foundation schools in the program.
“Truly, to use modern technology to further education is something that everyone should aspire for,” she said.
For her part, iACADEMY President and COO Raquel Perez Wong emphasized the importance of working together to create real change.
“This shows the power of collaboration. When government and private partners work hand in hand with genuine commitment, meaningful change becomes possible,” she said.
“At iACADEMY, we’ve always believed in the powerful merge of education and technology. In today’s rapidly evolving world, access to technology is no longer a privilege—it is a necessity.”
“That’s why Pay IT Forward initiative is so close to our hearts. It may not solve the digital divide entirely but our hope is that our small steps will later turn to bigger resolve and greater hope for others so each and every one of us will have our fair chance to shine in this digital world,” she added.