Bridging the Gap: Sunnies Studios and HOPE Turn Over First out of 10 Classrooms
165,000 — that’s the staggering number of classrooms the Philippines is currently short of, according to the Department of Education (DepEd). It’s a gap so wide that, at current funding and construction rates, it could take decades to close.
The shortage affects millions of students nationwide, forcing schools to implement shifting schedules, convert non-classroom spaces into makeshift learning areas, or cram more than 60 pupils into rooms meant for 40. Addressing this challenge requires not just government action but the support of the private sector, too.
But there’s HOPE!
Recognizing the scale of the problem, HOPE—the Philippines’ first certified B Corp and a pioneer in impact-driven initiatives—has been working to close the classroom gap through its flagship Generation HOPE campaign.
By partnering with purpose-led businesses, HOPE aims to give Filipino students safe, nurturing spaces where they can dream bigger and learn better.
On August 15, 2025, HOPE and Sunnies Studios, one of the country’s most beloved lifestyle brands, officially turned over two newly built classrooms to Muzon Elementary School in Alitagtag, Batangas. These classrooms are the first milestone in Sunnies’ pledge to fund a total of 10 classrooms in high-need public schools across the country.
More Than Four Walls
“In one of our talks with the DepEd Secretary, they mentioned how much more is still needed,” Eric Dee, co-founder of Sunnies Studios Sunnies representative shared during the turnover.
“What we’ve done here is just a small fraction of what we, as business owners, can contribute—but the need is massive. The demand for classrooms is in the hundreds of thousands. We can onlh HOPE this initiative inspires other organizations to step in and help.”
The partnership began when Sunnies, already a member of 1% for the Planet, looked for accredited organizations in the Philippines that aligned with their values. HOPE’s proven track record—having already built over 144 classrooms nationwide—made them a natural fit.
“We are incredibly excited to kick off this meaningful partnership with Sunnies through this classroom turnover,” said Selena Ortiga, Business Development Manager of HOPE.
“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.”
Inspiring Change Through Partnerships
HOPE Founder Nanette Medved-Po explained:
“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.”
DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara also praised the partnership, calling it “truly game-changing” and a model for how the private sector can help shape the future of Philippine education.
Style Meets Substance
“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.”
Beyond the Turnover
This isn’t the first collaboration between Sunnies and HOPE. In June, they launched Sunnies Studios X HOPE Clean Lens, a safe and gentle lens cleaner designed to keep your view crystal clear, with proceeds going toward HOPE’s projects. A second co-branded item—an on-the-go hydration essential—will be unveiled soon, also supporting classroom construction.
From stylish eyewear to sustainable product design and now, to building classrooms, Sunnies continues to prove that style and substance can go hand in hand. And with eight more classrooms on the horizon, their work with HOPE is a clear example of how businesses can help tackle one of the country’s most pressing education challenges.
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.
