Also referred to as National Schools Maintenance Week, Brigada Eskwela is a community-led program spearheaded by the Philippine Department of Education (DepEd). It mobilizes volunteers—including parents, students, teachers, local government units, businesses, and NGOs -— to prepare public schools for the upcoming school year through cleanup, repairs, and resource mobilization.
In 2025, Brigada Eskwela runs from June 9 to 13, in preparation for School Year 2025-2026, which begins on June 16, 2025.
This year’s theme is “Brigada Eskwela: Sama-sama Para sa Bayang Bumabasa” (Together for a Reading Nation), emphasizing literacy development and community collaboration.
Key Features of Brigada Eskwela:
Voluntary Bayanihan Spirit
Encourages collective effort (bayanihan) without mandatory fees or forced contributions.
Focuses on donations of time, materials, or skills (e.g., painting, carpentry, cleaning).
Physical School Readiness
Activities include:
Cleaning classrooms, gardens, and facilities.
Minor repairs (e.g., broken chairs, roofs, walls).
Setting up learning spaces (libraries, handwashing stations).
Beyond Cleanup: Holistic Support
Literacy programs (e.g., reading camps under the 2025 theme).
Health/Safety: Distributing hygiene kits, promoting disaster preparedness.
Sustainability: Eco-friendly practices (e.g., waste reduction, tree planting).
Public-Private Partnerships
Companies and NGOs often donate supplies (e.g., books, paint, tools).
LGUs may provide manpower or funding for larger repairs.
Policy Backing
Governed by annual DepEd memorandums (e.g., no solicitation allowed).
Aligns with DepEd’s goal of inclusive, resilient schools.
