In the '90s, several educational videos were redesigned by philanthropist Gina Lopez to fit the tastes of Filipino school children, propelling the rise of educational shows in the Philippines.

"Sineskwela," a show that explained scientific theories through the adventures of sci-fi characters, and "Math Tinik," which explained mathematical concepts visually, were only 2 of the 19 educational features masterminded by Lopez.

"Gusto niya mag-develop ng children's shows with Philippine content... Kumuha siya ng mga tiga-DepEd para i-review 'yung content," recalled veteran anchor and former Bantay Bata 163 program director Tina Monzon-Palma.

The two educational shows, along with "Hiraya Manawari" and "Bayani," were among the most watched educational features that decade as these daily programs were eventually sold as videotapes and CDs.

Schools across the country also used these shows as visual materials, and integrated the episodes into their lesson plans.

"It was well-thought off and it was academically researched on what the children want," Monzon-Palma said.

The shows were conceptualized because of Lopez's mission to help Filipino children, her brother and ABS-CBN Corporation chairman emeritus Eugenio "Gabby" Lopez III said.

"She said, 'I wanted to put a TV set in every school," Mr. Lopez said.

"Talagang ganun si Gina. Everything started with her love for a child," added Jing Castañeda, Bantay Bata 163's current program director.

The 65-year-old environmentalist passed away last week due to multiple organ failure.