The city governments of Malabon and Valenzuela have ramped up their respective preparations for the opening of school classes with the successful conduct of the Brigada Eskwela initiatives with the full cooperation of school and village authorities, as well as parents and volunteers.
Both Malabon Mayor Jeannie Sandoval and Valenzuela Mayor Wes Gatchalian, in separate interviews with The Manila Times via Viber, cited the importance of collaboration in strengthening the quality of education and creating learning spaces where students can thrive.
With Schools Division Office (SDO) Superintendent Juan Obierna and City Administrator Alexander Rosete, Sandoval led city personnel, parents, and community partners during the activity at Imelda Elementary School in Barangay Longos.
“Brigada Eskwela is a symbol of community unity for the welfare of our students. Through our cooperation, we can ensure that our schools are ready, safe, and well-prepared for the return to school,” she said.
With the coordination of various agencies in implementing educational programs, Rosete said Malabueños can rest assured that the city government remains committed to addressing the students’ needs.
The Malabon SDO reported that a total of 41,412 learners are enrolled in the city’s 28 elementary schools, while 26,243 students are enrolled in its 19 secondary schools for the 2026–2027 school year.
In Valenzuela, Gatchalian said thorough inspections were conducted to identify any structural issues or safety hazards within classrooms and along school pathways, ensuring secure and accessible routes for students.
“Necessary repairs and maintenance works were carried out on school facilities to create an environment conducive to learning, while fogging operations and sanitation protocols were done by the City Health Office in and around school premises,” Gatchalian said.
Also, under the provision of the city’s Education 360 Degrees Investment Program Plus, a total of 78,453 students from kindergarten to elementary levels benefited from the distribution of Balik Eskwela kits across 44 public elementary schools, he said.
“The initiative also extended support to almost 1,000 learners under the Special Needs Education program, helping ensure that students are equipped with essential learning materials as they begin the school year,” the Valenzuela mayor said.
Gatchalian said the local government has also conducted a comprehensive refresher course for Bantay Estudyante personnel and volunteers — mostly senior citizens — to reinforce their roles and responsibilities in ensuring the safety and welfare of students.
The training reoriented participants on their mandate as frontliners in maintaining order and security in and around school zones, particularly during the busy Balik-Eskwela season, the mayor said.
“Through these efforts, the city government eagerly anticipates a well-prepared start to the school year with students returning to classrooms that are secure and welcoming,” the local chief executive said.
