By Ma. Teresa Montemayor/Philippine News Agency
MANILA — The Department of Education (DepEd) is all set to welcome the estimated 27.8 million learners for the school year 2019 to 2020.
DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones, in a press briefing in Malacanang, said the department has increased efforts to ensure the readiness of almost 62,000 public and private schools nationwide “to deliver quality, accessible, relevant, and liberating basic education”.
Briones reported that there is an increase in the number of learners this school year at 27,817,737 compared to 27,018,509 last school year.
She said the DepEd conducted different activities and programs for the smooth opening of classes on June 3, which include the early registration for upcoming Kindergarten and Grades 1, 7, and 11 learners.
It was held last Jan. 26 to Feb. 22 and approximately five million new entrants registered early.
Briones added that the Brigada Eskwela, which kicked off nationwide on May 20, remains an effective means to keep schools safe and conducive to learning come the opening of classes.
“It gathered learners, parents, teachers, community members, partners from the public and private sector, and other stakeholders to contribute their time, effort, and resources. We are grateful for the massive outpouring of love and support to our public schools,” she said, adding that the program has consistent increase in generated resources and volunteers.
To address the problems and concerns encountered by the public at the start of the school year, Briones said Oplan Balik Eskwela will be reactivated to provide a venue at the central, regional, and division offices while the Public Assistance and Command Center at the Central Office shall operate from May 27 to June 7.
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