900 soldiers to help in 'Brigada Eskwela' program in Metro

MANILA, Philippines -  The Armed Forces National Capital Region Command (NCRCOM) will deploy 900 soldiers to assist the Department of Education (DepEd) in its “Brigada Eskwela” program that would clean and refurbish public schools nationwide. 

NCRCOM commander Maj. Gen. Tristan Kison said yesterday that the soldiers would be assigned to clean and prepare for school opening at least 200 public elementary and high schools in Metro Manila.

“The task of NCRCOM is to provide the needed manpower assistance to DepEd and we will ensure that the launching will run smoothly. The NCRCOM will do its best to contribute to the success of the Brigada Eskwela,” Kison said.

The DepEd is expected to launch today the Brigada Eskwela kickoff caravan at its office in Pasig City.

Kison said the NCRCOM would provide assistance to the program until May 28.

He said they are ready to provide assistance even beyond that date.

The opening of classes has been slated on June 6.

There are about 38,000 public elementary schools and more than 7,000 public high schools nationwide.

Armed Forces chief Gen. Eduardo Oban Jr. said he has ordered all field units to help the DepEd in ensuring the successful opening of classes next month.

“I have directed our field units nationwide to extend the necessary manpower support and assistance to this endeavor of the DepEd,” he said.

Oban noted that the military has been supportive of the annual program, which involved teachers, cause-oriented groups, and civilian volunteers.

Soldiers have been involved in the construction of school buildings and other similar activities as part of their civil-military operations.

Brigada Eskwela, also called the National Schools Maintenance Week, has been scheduled on May 23 to 28.

It encourages all education stakeholders to contribute their time, effort and resources in ensuring that public school facilities are ready for the forthcoming school opening.