Dr. William Belo Takes Action After Heartwarming Encounter at UST Awarding Ceremony
True to its mission of building not just homes but also hope, Wilcon Depot, the country’s leading home improvement and construction supply retailer, took meaningful action to help restore the dreams of schoolchildren in Aurora province, still reeling from last year’s devastation by Typhoon Pepito.
During an awarding ceremony held at the University of Santo Tomas (UST), Dr. William T. Belo, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Wilcon Depot, was recognized by his alma mater for his outstanding contributions to the industry and society. There, he had a meaningful encounter with Engr. Vira Arceo, co-awardee and Board Director of Baler Aurora Ngayon Angkan at Kasaysayan Inc. (BANAKA). In a heartfelt conversation, Engr. Arceo shared the harsh realities faced by educators and students in Aurora in the aftermath of super typhoon Pepito—especially in the municipality of Dingalan—where many schools were severely damaged or destroyed.
Typhoon Pepito, which swept across the country last year, left a trail of destruction in the northern towns of Dipaculao, Dinalungan, Casiguran, and Dilasag, damaging over 94 schools, hundreds of classrooms and disrupting the learning of hundreds of young learners In five barangays alone, the typhoon blew off the roofs of more than 60% of homes, leaving families and educators scrambling for shelter and learning space.
Moved by the stories and the urgent needs of the affected communities, Dr. Belo responded without hesitation. With just a few heartfelt words to Arceo, he made his intention clear: “’Yung sa probinsya, tulungan natin ’yung mga eskwela at mga bata—’yung mga schools na na-damage.” (“Let’s help the province, the children, and rebuild their damaged schools.”)
On April 23, 2025, Wilcon Depot dispatched the first batch of roofing and construction materials to Aurora. This was followed by another shipment two days later. These critical supplies ignited full-blown rebuilding efforts across the damaged schools in the province.
A significant milestone in this initiative was marked on June 11, 2025, during the ceremonial turnover of newly rehabilitated school buildings at the Aurora National Science High School in Dingalan. Wilcon Depot was represented by Harvy Cruz, AVP for Sales and Operations, who joined the community in celebrating the restoration of safe and conducive learning spaces for students. Also in attendance were Schools Division Superintendent Dante G. Parungao, CESO V, school heads from across the province, teachers, students, and their families. Emotions ran high as the event symbolized not just the reconstruction of buildings, but the rekindling of hope and the reaffirmation of community spirit.
Wilcon Depot remains committed to its mission of building stronger communities through acts of kindness and meaningful impact. As part of its long-standing advocacy of nation-building, Wilcon continues to respond not only to the structural needs of Filipinos, but also to the emotional and educational pillars that sustain their dreams.
Wilcon Depot’s support aims to address the urgent needs of these underserved areas and contribute to the long-term rehabilitation of public schools in Aurora. The company, through its Wilcon Foundation, has consistently supported education, disaster response, and community development programs across the country.
This act of compassion and generosity is a reflection of Wilcon Depot’s core values– integrity, community, and service. Dr. Belo’s quick response to a heartfelt appeal reinforces the belief that true leadership lies not just in vision, but in the ability to listen, care, and act.
For more information about Wilcon, visit www.wilcon.com.ph or follow their social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. You can also subscribe to and connect with them on Viber Community, LinkedIn, and YouTube. For inquiries, you may contact the Wilcon Depot Hotline at 88-WILCON (88-945266).
