Manila, Philippines — A few days before the official opening of classes, various government agencies are already in full preparation to ensure that there will be no problems on the first day of school.
Part of this is Malacañang’s assurance that a Whole-of-Government Approach will be implemented.
According to Palace Press Officer and Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro, at least sixteen government agencies and utility partners have specific roles under the Inter-Agency Oplan Balik Eskwela 2026 launched by the Department of Education (DepEd).
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Health (DOH), and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will lead efforts to maintain security, health, and traffic management in communities.
A stable power supply will be ensured by the Department of Energy (DOE) and Manila Electric Company (MERALCO).
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) will monitor public transportation, while the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) will strengthen communication and connectivity services.
The Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) will also ensure continuous water supply in schools.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is likewise involved in maintaining school building infrastructure.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has been instructed to remain on 24/7 alert for any unexpected incidents, disasters, or emergencies.
Meanwhile, the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) will expand the dissemination of important information regarding the opening of classes for School Year 2026–2027.
Related to this, Education Secretary Sonny Angara led the nationwide launch of Brigada Eskwela.
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) partnered with DepEd by deploying TUPAD beneficiaries to help in classroom preparation.
According to DepEd, more than 240,000 individuals under the cash-for-work program will temporarily receive livelihood opportunities.
DOLE has allocated ₱2 billion for this initiative.