Powering Hope: How Solar Bright Innovation Brought Light to a Remote Farm
- William Le, MD
- May 31, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 3
After visiting Fr. John in Culion, I saw firsthand how urgently the farm needed electricity. Having reliable power is a necessity and a crucial first step for any real progress—whether it’s improving farming, education, or daily living conditions. This quickly became a priority project for the foundation to help the community move forward.
I reached out to several companies for help, but most either didn't reply or quoted sky-high prices without addressing our needs. In fact, Fr. John’s assistant, Toto, also contacted about 10 companies without much luck.
I also reached out to Elizabeth’s uncle, Engr. Atoy, an electrical engineer, who then connected us with his friend, Engr. Ed, based in Puerto Princesa. Engr. Ed researched the necessary materials and gathered cost estimates by contacting several companies. However, the challenge was figuring out how to transport the materials to the remote farm and who would handle the installation.
The only company that stood out, willing to help and was ready to take on the challenge was Solar Bright Innovation. Unlike others, they listed their prices openly. I reached out, and Ramer, the owner, was quick to respond—even though they were based in Mindoro, a different island. He agreed to transport all the materials on a public ferry (which only leaves twice a week) and would travel with his brother, Rey, to the farm.
Ramer and Rey traveled for two days from Mindoro with all their materials using mostly public transportation. The ferry from Mindoro to Coron alone took 9 hours. Upon arrival in Coron, they had to take a small boat (a "bangka") to reach Culion, where Toto helped transport everything to the farm. Despite facing high winds and rough waters, they managed to deliver everything safely to the farm.
They started installing the solar panels right away and worked through the night to make sure everything was perfect. It took them two full days to install and inspect everything. They faced unexpected fees and travel costs leading to additional expenses, however, I felt it was fair given their effort and dedication. My father-in-law, Tim, and Elizabeth's cousin, Christopher, were very helpful in arranging the transfer of funds from our bank in the US to Batangas, where Christopher lives, and then on to Culion.
Ramer and Rey stayed at the farm for a few extra days, waiting for a ferry to return home. Even though it was a longer stay than planned, they felt welcomed by Fr. John and Toto and enjoyed the peaceful surroundings at the farm.
Solar Bright Innovation went above and beyond, traveling from another island to make this project happen when no one else would take it on. Thanks to them, the farm now has electricity and a reliable water pump—a big step for the community!
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