Every Filipino child deserves a space where they can learn, grow, and dream without limits. Yet for millions of students nationwide, the reality is far from this ideal. With a classroom shortage that runs in the hundreds of thousands, many children are forced into overcrowded rooms, shifting schedules, or even makeshift learning spaces.
But in Muzon Elementary School in Alitagtag, Batangas, hope has taken a concrete form—two brand-new classrooms that will now serve as safe and nurturing spaces for young learners.
On August 15, 2025, HOPE, the Philippines’ first certified B Corp and a pioneer in impact-driven initiatives, together with beloved lifestyle brand Sunnies Studios, officially turned over these new classrooms to the school community.
A Partnership for Change
This milestone is more than just a construction project—it’s the beginning of a promise. The classrooms at Muzon mark the first step in Sunnies’ pledge to fund 10 classrooms through HOPE’s flagship Generation HOPE campaign, a movement dedicated to closing the education gap by uniting purpose-driven organizations.
Reflecting on this milestone, HOPE Founder Nanette Medved-Po shared:
“I really thought we should approach the most beloved brands in the country and say we want to do something bigger, and we want to do it together. To inspire the nation to nation-build for education, we have to do it with the support of brands and businesses in the country. We are deeply grateful to Sunnies for partnering with us on this important mission.”
More Than Four Walls
For the children of Muzon, the classrooms mean more than new desks and fresh walls. They represent a safe space where ideas can flourish, friendships can form, and futures can be built.
“Every classroom we build represents more than just four walls, it’s a place for learning, dreaming, and transformation. Sunnies’ commitment of 10 classrooms will create ripple effects that reach far beyond the students inside them,” said Selena Ortiga, Business Development Manager of HOPE.
This is the power of a classroom—it doesn’t just serve today’s students, it becomes a stepping stone for future generations.
When Style Meets Substance
For Sunnies Studios, this partnership is deeply aligned with their values. Known as one of the country’s most beloved lifestyle brands, Sunnies has long believed that business can be a force for good.
“We’ve always believed that style and substance can go hand in hand,” said Bea Soriano-Dee, Co-Founder and Head of Product Development at Sunnies Studios. “Partnering with HOPE allows us to make a meaningful contribution where it’s needed most. Education is something we deeply value, and we’re proud to help provide learning spaces that empower the next generation.”
A Ripple Effect for the Nation
Department of Education Secretary Sonny Angara praised the initiative, calling it “something truly game-changing, made possible with the support of the Philippines’ private sector. Partnerships like these show how the private sector can help shape the future of our students.”
From eyewear to sustainable product design, and now to building classrooms, Sunnies is proving that businesses can create lasting impact when they choose purpose alongside profit. Just this June, the brand launched the Sunnies Studios X HOPE Clean Lens, with proceeds going toward classroom construction—showing that even everyday choices can drive meaningful change.
A Future Built Together
With 10 classrooms pledged by Sunnies, and over 144 already built by HOPE across the country, each new school building becomes a symbol of what’s possible when communities, brands, and organizations work hand in hand.
For the students of Muzon Elementary, stepping into their new classrooms means stepping into a brighter, more hopeful tomorrow. And for the nation, it’s a reminder that when we come together, we can turn challenges into opportunities—one classroom, one child, one dream at a time.
To date, HOPE has built over 144 classrooms across the country, starting with every bottle of water sold, and now expanding through co-branded products and purpose-led partnerships.
For more information about Generation HOPE, please visit https://www.generationhope.ph/ or follow HOPE on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/generationhope.ph or m@generationhope.ph on Instagram for more updates.
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