Akari provides solar-powered lanterns to an electricity-deprived community in North Cotabato
A New Era for Filipino Sports: Akari Helps Build the Home of the UAAP
A historic milestone for the UAAP community has officially begun — the rise of an 8,000-seat arena that will soon become a symbol of unity, excellence, and passion for Filipino student-athletes. More than just a venue, this state-of-the-art complex will serve as a beacon where communities come together to uplift, illuminate, and celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship.
Dedicated to nurturing future champions, the Home of the UAAP will provide a world-class facility where athletes can train, compete, and grow — strengthening their foundation to represent their schools and the nation with pride. Akari, through its commitment to innovation and nation-building, is honored to help bring this vision to life.
Building a Legacy of Excellence
Akari Lighting & Technology Corporation — one of the Philippines’ most trusted names in LED lighting and sustainable home solutions — is proud to support Kabayan Special Patrol’s continuing initiative to reach out to schools and underserved communities in remote areas, through the dedicated efforts of broadcast journalist and public servant Mr. Noli “Ka Noli” de Castro.
Ka Noli recently visited Arakan, North Cotabato — a province in the SOCCSKSARGEN region of Mindanao that was badly hit by El Niño, prompting several of its residents to join the widely reported 2016 Kidapawan Protests, a painful reminder of the deep poverty and agricultural crisis affecting many rural Filipino communities to this day.
In addition to the school supplies, vitamins, and teaching aids provided by the TV program to the students of Ganatan Elementary School Extension, Akari donated much-needed rechargeable LED solar lanterns to the residents of Brgy. Ganatan, Sitio Makati in Arakan — a community that has long been without access to reliable electricity.
The electricity-deprived community was elated to receive the solar-powered lamps, which offer a clean, renewable, and cost-free alternative to dangerous kerosene and candle lighting. The solar panels of Akari’s Dual Power rechargeable lanterns are built to last up to 5 years and are projected to provide bright, dependable light to the families of Sitio Makati for many years to come — completely off the grid.
This initiative is a testament to Akari’s unwavering commitment to social responsibility, sustainable energy, and nation-building — ensuring that the transformative power of light reaches not just urban households, but the most remote and underserved communities across the Philippines.
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“We’ve successfully increased the seating capacity in the upper-ground or general admission area, raising it from nearly 7,000 to more than 8,000 seats,” Tan revealed.
He added that the project team is also carefully studying proposals to introduce standing room areas, prioritizing both safety and accessibility for fans.
“Safety remains a top priority. Should standing zones be added, there will be protective barriers in place, along with clear emergency discharge routes to ensure everyone’s well-being,” Tan explained.
In his speech, Tan expressed gratitude to the UAAP for entrusting Athletica Asia Land Corporation with such a meaningful endeavor.
“Today, as we break ground, we’re not just laying the foundation of a structure — we’re building a legacy. This will be a space that inspires future generations and unites people through the power of sports,” he said.
