Navotas city: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday directed the Department of Education (DepEd) to ensure the readiness of public schools nationwide ahead of the reopening of classes on June 8. Speaking at Kapitbahayan Elementary School in Navotas City during the National Capital Region kickoff of Brigada Eskwela 2026, Marcos emphasized the importance of being fully prepared for the return of students to their educational institutions.
According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos highlighted that DepEd is already aware of the necessary steps and should focus on executing them to guarantee a smooth transition for learners. He stated, "Kung may instruction man ako, tiyakin nila na handa sa pagbubukas ng eskwela, ng klase para naman hindi nabibitin ang mga bata, tuloy-tuloy ang kanilang pag-aaral," underscoring the need for uninterrupted learning.
The President underscored the government's focus on improving school facilities and creating a safe and conducive learning environment. Together with Education Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara, Marcos launched Brigada Eskwela 2026 under the theme 'Bayanihan sa Paaralan: Nagkakaisa para sa Kaayusan at Kaalaman.' The nationwide school maintenance drive, set from June 1 to 5, engages teachers, parents, local governments, private organizations, and volunteers in preparation for the School Year 2026-2027.
During his visit, Marcos inspected ongoing classroom preparations and school safety facilities. The administration has also enlisted beneficiaries of the Department of Labor and Employment's Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program to aid in school readiness efforts. Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino announced that approximately 240,000 TUPAD beneficiaries would be deployed to around 5,000 schools nationwide to assist in painting, cleaning, and maintenance work across over 200,000 classrooms.
This initiative, carried out in collaboration with DepEd and parent-teacher associations, aims to ensure schools are adequately prepared despite the challenges posed by the rainy season.
