DEPED ACTIVATES OPLAN BALIK ESKWELA FOR SAFE, SMOOTH SCHOOL OPENING
The multi-sectoral mobilization under the 2026 OBE from June 1 – 11 is in line with the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to ensure readiness to advance quality education and protect the welfare of learners and teachers.
In a statement, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara said the preparations for the OBE demonstrate the administration’s prioritization of the education sector.
“Sinisiguro natin, kasama ang iba’t ibang ahensya ng pamahalaan, na magiging ligtas, maayos, at walang aberya ang pagbabalik-aral ng ating mga mag-aaral(We are making sure, together with various government agencies, that our learners will have a safe, orderly, and hassle-free return to classes),” he said.
The OBE seeks to streamline the enrollment process, address public concerns, and ensure coordination between the DepEd and other government and private agencies.
At least 16 government agencies and critical utility partners are collaborating with the DepEd to boost logistics support and secure all schools.
Notable safety guidelines, community health assistance, and regional traffic management plans will be actively deployed by the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Health (DOH), and the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA).
In terms of structural stability, the Department of Energy (DOE) will coordinate steady grid distribution, while the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) expands consumer protection.
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) will closely monitor air, land, and maritime commuter streams.
The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) will reinforce connectivity pathways.
For its part, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) will be on 24/7 standby for early weather hazards, while communication efforts will be amplified by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).
Meanwhile, the Manila Electric Company (MERALCO) and Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) will impose a stringent oversight measure to ensure uninterrupted power and water services to all school clusters.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will also secure infrastructure maintenance and enhanced social protection tracking for vulnerable learners, when needed.
To process public feedback efficiently, the OBE Public Assistance Command Center (OBE-PACC) will leverage public hotlines, emails, and social media channels to handle public grievances in real time.
The public may contact the OBE-PACC via the PACC Hotlines: 8636-1663; 8633-1942
