Marcos to DepEd: Ensure smooth school opening

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos ordered yesterday the Department of Education (DepEd) to ensure that public schools are prepared for the opening of classes on June 8.

Marcos issued the directive as he inspected the implementation of Brigada Eskwela, a community-driven classroom maintenance program, at the Kapitbahayan Elementary School in Navotas City.

“DepEd should make sure that all schools are ready for the opening of classes so that children’s learning continues smoothly,” he said.

Marcos was joined by DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gathalian, Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino and Navotas Mayor John Reynald Tiangco.

Marcos inspected the school’s closed-circuit television system and joined volunteers in painting the walls of one of the classrooms.

He also led a storytelling session with selected Grade 1 learners.

Marcos read to the children the Filipino book “Ang Matsing at Ang Pagong” – the monkey and the turtle – by national hero Jose Rizal.

The President distributed stuffed toys to students after the storytelling session.

Twenty-two students were given computer tablets while teachers received laptops, according to Angara.

This year’s Brigada Eskwela is being held nationwide from June 1 to 5.

Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte joined yesterday the Brigada Eskwela activity at the Diosdado P. Macapagal Elementary School in Barangay Tatalon, Quezon City.

Duterte’s office also distributed cleaning and maintenance materials at the San Vicente Elementary School and Pinyahan Elementary School.

The DepEd said enrollment for academic year 2026-2027 is expected to reach 26 million to 28 million.

No-collection policy

The DepEd reiterated that the no-collection policy remains strictly enforced, saying schools are prohibited from collecting mandatory fees or any contributions for Brigada Eskwela.

The DepEd said public schools must rely on available school funds, government assistance, institutional partnerships and community volunteerism.

“While DepEd appreciates that many teachers voluntarily extend help out of their own initiative, systemic school needs must not depend on the personal finances of teaching personnel,” the agency said.

Angara said the DepEd is actively streamlining administrative and financial support mechanisms to shield teachers from financial burdens, allowing them to focus entirely on instruction. — Bella Cariaso