The Department of Education launched the weeklong Brigada Eskwela activities from June 9 to 13, 2025, with the theme “Sama-sama Para sa Bayang Bumabasa.” This initiative promotes volunteerism and multisectoral collaboration towards a clean, safe, and conducive learning environment.

In full support, DSWD Field Office 1 – Ilocos Region (DSWD FO 1) Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries flocked to schools with their cleaning materials to participate in this school-based activity. Without hesitation, they helped clean school grounds, painted chairs and classroom walls, and attended Parent-Teacher orientations such participation underscored their role not just as beneficiaries, but as empowered partners in education.

Meanwhile, DSWD FO 1 4Ps staff joined the Brigada Eskwela through reading sessions for incoming learners at Aringay National High School. The 4Ps staff helped teachers in assessing the reading ability of incoming Grade 7 learners, contributing to the goal of improving literacy. This effort affirms DSWD FO 1’s continued commitment to supporting education. 

Aside from the Brigada Eskwela activities, 300 4Ps household beneficiaries in Dagupan City, Pangasinan sold recyclable materials to raise funds to buy school supplies. 34 4Ps children beneficiaries received notebooks, papers, crayons, and ballpens from the proceeds of this initiative.

Indeed, the DSWD FO 1 4Ps has been consistently in unison with DepEd to achieve the shared goal to help build a better future, one classroom at a time. (Written by: Arlem Kenneth R. Areola, PDO II- NGA Focal and Photos by: 4Ps City/ Municipal Operations Offices)