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 during the National Capital Region kickoff of Brigada Eskwela 2026 at Kapitbahayan Elementary School in Navotas City, Marcos said DepEd already knows what needs to be done and should focus on making sure schools are fully prepared for learners’ return.

“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 (If ever I have instructions, that would be to ensure readiness for the resumption of classes so learning will go unhampered),” he said.

Marcos said government efforts are focused on improving school facilities and ensuring a safe and conducive learning environment.

The President led the launch of Brigada Eskwela 2026 together with Education Secretary Juan Edgardo Angara under the theme “Bayanihan sa Paaralan: Nagkakaisa para sa Kaayusan at Kaalaman.”

The nationwide school maintenance drive, which runs from June 1 to 5, mobilizes teachers, parents, local governments, private organizations and volunteers to prepare schools for the start of School Year 2026-2027.

Marcos inspected ongoing classroom preparations and school safety facilities during his visit.

The administration has tapped beneficiaries of the Department of Labor and Employment’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program to help prepare schools for the reopening of classes.

Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino earlier said around 240,000 TUPAD beneficiaries would be deployed to some 5,000 schools nationwide to assist in painting, cleaning, repairs and maintenance work covering more than 200,000 classrooms.

The initiative is being undertaken in coordination with DepEd and parent-teacher associations to help ensure schools are ready despite the onset of the rainy season. (PNA)