Around 28 million students are set to return to school on August 29, 2023, as announced by the Department of Education (DepEd). The commencement of classes will take place in over 47,000 public schools across the nation.
During a strategic meeting held at the DepEd headquarters in Pasig City, Undersecretary for Operations Revsee Escobedo emphasized the significance of the upcoming school year’s start, underscoring its critical role in shaping students’ educational progress nationwide.
Escobedo acknowledged the forthcoming challenges that lie ahead, in addition to the persistent issues that have been faced historically. Despite these obstacles, he assured the public that DepEd remains dedicated to tackling these hurdles and stressed the importance of a collaborative effort involving the entire nation.
The priority, as highlighted by Escobedo, is to ensure that each student has access to fundamental essentials such as communication tools, proper facilities, transportation, and a secure environment. Schools are expected to be fully prepared and functional for the students’ return.
“We extend our call to partners and warmly welcome your support,” Escobedo appealed.
The conference saw participation from several government agencies, including the Departments of Health, Energy, Interior and Local Government, National Defense, Social Welfare and Development, Trade and Industry, Information and Communications Technology, and Transportation.
The Inter-agency group also includes members like the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Philippine National Police, Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration, National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, National Telecommunications Commission, Presidential Communications Office, and the Manila Electric Company (Meralco). (ai/mnm)
