π What is Brigada Eskwela and Why is it Important?
Every school year, the Department of Education (DepEd) launches Brigada Eskwela, a nationwide initiative that promotes community participation, volunteerism, and collaborative preparation for the reopening of classes. For School Year 2025–2026, the DepEd issued Memorandum No. 042, s. 2025, with detailed procedures to ensure every public school is ready, clean, safe, and conducive for learning—without requiring monetary solicitation from stakeholders.
π ️ Assessing School Facilities for Readiness
A key element of the pre-implementation stage is the thorough assessment of physical facilities, focusing on maintenance needs, literacy spaces, and the general condition of classrooms and learning areas. The School Facilities Coordinator will lead the evaluation, using the School Preparedness Checklist to identify priorities. Schools must also assess the adequacy of bookshelves, reading nooks, and storytelling corners, ensuring that reading readiness is part of early interventions for learners who need extra support.
π« Absolute Ban on Solicitation: A Must-Follow Rule
DepEd strictly prohibits all forms of solicitation, reinforcing the core principle that Brigada Eskwela is voluntary. School personnel must not request any financial or material contributions from parents, guardians, or volunteers. Instead, schools can present their needs through official Brigada Eskwela packages to potential partners. This ensures transparency and allows stakeholders to contribute voluntarily, free from pressure or coercion.
π Prohibited Partnerships: Upholding Ethical Standards
To maintain a safe and healthy school environment, schools must avoid engaging with industries that pose conflicts of interest. This includes tobacco companies, alcohol manufacturers, and producers of breast milk substitutes. Schools must adhere to DepEd’s health-related orders and guidelines, including:
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DO No. 48, s. 2016 (Tobacco Control)
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DO No. 13, s. 2017 (Healthy Food Choices)
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Joint Administrative Order 2022-0001 on Healthy Settings Framework
These regulations ensure that all collaborations support the well-being of learners.
π₯ Formation of Brigada Eskwela Working Committees
The School Head will form and supervise the Brigada Eskwela Working Committees, consisting of teachers, non-teaching staff, PTA officers, reading coordinators, and, optionally, learners and community members. Participation is strictly voluntary and cannot be tied to academic incentives for students.
Each committee has key roles:
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Public Awareness Campaigns to boost community involvement
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Resource Mobilization to gather books, materials, manpower, and support
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Activity Implementation aligned with the School Improvement Plan (SIP)
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Administrative and Financial Management to track resources and donations accurately
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Documentation through reports, photos, attendance logs, and encoding in the DepEd Partnerships Database System (DPDS)
π€ External Partner Engagement: Building Stronger Communities
Local government units (LGUs), NGOs, private individuals, and national agencies are encouraged to coordinate with DepEd offices and support schools by:
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Attending planning meetings
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Using the School Preparedness Checklist
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Donating items listed in the official Brigada Eskwela Packages
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Helping raise awareness and organize community mobilization
Barangays may even issue local ordinances to back up the campaign.
π Brigada Eskwela Support Packages: What Schools Need Most
To guide donors and stakeholders, DepEd provides pre-designed support packages that fall into several categories, including:
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π Reading Kits – storybooks, assessment tools, and literacy materials
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π§Ή General Cleaning & Sanitation – mops, detergents, masks, and disinfectants
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π§ Repair & Maintenance – tools and minor repair materials
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π¨ Painting & Beautification – paints, rollers, and wall putty
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π‘ Electrical & Lighting – safe wiring, bulbs, and breakers
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π± Gardening & Landscaping – seedlings, compost bins, and tools
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π° Water & Sanitation – faucets, handwashing stations, and filters
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πͺ Classroom Essentials – desks, blackboards, and bulletin boards
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π» Digital Learning – laptops, routers, and e-learning software
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π¨ Safety & Preparedness – emergency kits, flashlights, and fire extinguishers
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π₯ Volunteer Services – skilled and non-skilled manpower
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π± Snacks for Volunteers – healthy and DepEd-compliant meals
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π§Ό Health & Hygiene Kits – soap, toothpaste, sanitary pads
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π¦ Learner's and Teacher's Kits – school and teaching supplies
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π Emergency Kits – medical devices, rescue tools, and evacuation guides
All contributions must be properly documented, supported by official MOAs, Deeds of Donation, and compliant with tax incentive requirements.
Click here to read complete Brigada Eskwela 2025 pre-implementation guidelines.
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