Manila, Philippines — Only a few days left before classes resume for School Year 2026–2027 on June 8.
Nationwide preparations are underway for the return of students to school.
Part of these is this year’s Brigada Eskwela, which carries the theme “Bayanihan para sa Paaralan: Nagkakaisa para sa Kaayusan at Kaalaman”.
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto has recommended to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) that beneficiaries of its TUPAD program be allowed to assist in the schools’ Brigada Eskwela activities.
He mentioned this during a meeting with Labor Acting Secretary Francis Tolentino together with other officials of the Department of Education (DepEd).
According to Recto, the support that these beneficiaries can provide would greatly help public schools, especially in maintenance, repairs, and the improvement of classrooms, while also giving them temporary employment.
Recto also emphasized the need to expand the scope of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) Program so that it will not be limited only to street sweeping activities.
He likewise expressed full support for the new leadership of the DOLE and the newly appointed secretary of the agency.
Meanwhile, the DepEd had earlier called on organizations, partners, and volunteers across the country to participate in the upcoming Brigada Eskwela activities in their respective schools.
Priority tasks where volunteers may help include cleaning, repairing electrical wiring and lighting, painting, fixing classrooms, planting, and many other activities.
Meanwhile Brigada Eskwela will run from June 1 to June 5.