THE DEPARTMENT of Education established the Balangkas ng Nagkakaisang Sambayanan, a national peace framework that will strengthen the agency’s commitment in upholding a culture of peace and the call for safer and conflict-free schools and learning institutions.

“DepEd is fully committed to ensuring the protection of learners and schools in conflict-affected areas and the continuity of education during periods of armed conflict. We also want to guarantee that the right of all citizens to quality and accessible education at all levels and for the right of children is protected,” Education Secretary Leonor Briones said.

Based on the DepEd Order No. 16, series of 2022, the department will actively participate in keeping the peace and order amid conflicts in the country. DepEd will also uphold children’s rights in basic education, promote their welfare and enhance their opportunities to grow and live.

“DepEd officials and personnel are enjoined to adopt this Balangkas ng Nagkakaisang Sambayanan. BANSA will serve as DepEd’s Peace Framework in line with the government’s thrust of inclusive and sustainable peace through the whole-of-nation approach in achieving good governance,” Undersecretary for Administration Alain Pascua said.

DepEd also expressed its commitment to proactively join inter-agency meetings and engagements to amplify the importance of education and the safety of the learners and teachers amid localized or national disputes.

To oversee the Department’s participation in peacebuilding initiatives, the DepEd Central Office BANSA Peace Core Team will be established, composed of representatives from the Offices of the Undersecretary for Administration and Curriculum and Instruction, and the Alternative Learning System Task Force.

They will also be joined by the Indigenous Peoples Education Office, Planning Service, Public Affairs Service, Legal Service, Information and Communications Technology Service, Bureau of Learner Support Services, and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service.