Bulata is a vibrant fishing community in the Philippines and is the project site for our Project ACE (Actions for Communities and Environment) a tripartite project of Communites for Nature, LMAX Group and Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation. The project supports livelihood, educational, environmental initiatives in the community.

Bulata Elementary School is a vital part of the community. It’s where 482 children, aged 6 to 14, begin their learning journey.

For those who’ve had access to well-resourced schools, libraries are easy to take for granted. But in Bulata, many children have never even stepped into one. The room that was once meant to house books was damaged and left unusable after Typhoon Odette — its walls flooded, its contents ruined before they could ever be filled.

In a country where 91% of 10-year-olds struggle with reading comprehension (World Bank, 2022), access to books, technology, and safe learning spaces is more than a luxury — it’s a lifeline.

We are aiming to raise £5,000 to help transform the empty, damaged library room into a welcoming, functional space for learning and growth. The funds will go toward:

• Repairing and refurbishing the library room

• Bookshelves and furniture

• A collection of age-appropriate books (ages 6–14)

• A computer to support digital learning

• A soft play area to promote children’s well-being and development

. An aircon unit that protects the books from mildew, mould and effects of being near the ocean

This is more than just a rebuild — it’s an opportunity to give these children a space that nurtures curiosity, imagination, and resilience. A place where they can discover the joy of learning and build brighter futures for themselves and their community.

Let’s build a library. Let’s build futures.