The Department of Education (DepEd) is ramping up readiness measures for the upcoming academic year while firmly reminding school administrators and field offices that teachers must not be required or expected to pay for classroom preparation expenses out of pocket.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara announced that the agency is currently optimizing both financial and administrative support mechanisms. This initiative aims to shield educators from personal financial burdens, allowing them to dedicate their full attention to teaching.
”Alam naming maraming guro ang kusang tumutulong dahil mahal nila ang kanilang mga estudyante at paaralan, at lubos natin itong pinahahalagahan,” Angara said in a statement.
However, the Education Chief underscored that personal expenditures by educators are neither required nor sanctioned under standing guidelines.
”Pero malinaw dapat na hindi sila inaatasang gumastos mula sa sariling bulsa. Responsibilidad nating gawing mas madali para sa teachers na magturo, hindi dagdagan ang kanilang pasanin,” he added.
In line with this, DepEd reiterated the strict implementation of its “No Collection” policy. Schools are strictly forbidden from demanding mandatory fees or contributions for enrollment, Brigada Eskwela, or any school-opening activities.
Principals and school heads have been directed to fully utilize their School Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) allocations for valid operational requirements, such as facility maintenance and minor repairs. These funds are distributed directly to implementing schools, while non-implementing schools receive their logistical support via their respective division offices.
The agency stressed that Brigada Eskwela must preserve its traditional essence as a community-led bayanihan effort rather than a fundraising campaign. The initiative counts on the volunteerism and collaboration of local government units, civic organizations, private partners, and community volunteers to ready campuses.
To ensure seamless logistics before the school year kicks off, DepEd is collaborating with various stakeholders and partner agencies. Numerous partner organizations are scheduled to set up help desks and service booths during Brigada Eskwela week to expedite the distribution of assistance to public schools.
Furthermore, a joint effort with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) will see the deployment of approximately 240,000 workers under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) program.
These personnel will handle cleaning, repairs, and logistical duties across roughly 5,000 large public schools nationwide. This strategy simultaneously boosts school readiness manpower and offers temporary jobs to eligible parents and residents.
DepEd also spotlighted existing teacher welfare legislation, specifically Republic Act 11997, or the Kabalikat sa Pagtuturo Act, which grants public school educators a teaching allowance dedicated to supplies, instructional materials, and other classroom needs.
According to Angara, these coordinated efforts directly support President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s mandate to guarantee that schools are completely ready for the opening of classes without placing an unfair financial load on teachers.