DepEd launches Oplan Balik Eskwela ahead of June 8 class opening

The Department of Education has activated its nationwide Oplan Balik Eskwela program ahead of the opening of classes for School Year 2026-2027, with multiple government agencies tapped to help ensure a smooth and orderly return to school on June 8.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara said the initiative, which will run from June 1 to 11, aims to streamline enrollment, address public concerns, and coordinate preparations in schools nationwide.

“Sinisiguro natin, kasama ang iba't ibang ahensya ng pamahalaan, na magiging ligtas, maayos, at walang aberya ang pagbabalik-aral ng ating mga mag-aaral,” Angara said.

(We are ensuring, together with different government agencies, that the return to school of our students will be safe, orderly, and free from disruptions.)

DepEd said at least 16 government agencies and utility partners are participating in the preparations for the school opening.

Among the agencies involved are the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Philippine National Police, Department of Health, and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, which will help implement safety, health, and traffic management measures around schools.

The Department of Transportation will monitor commuter flow during the opening of classes, while the Department of Information and Communications Technology and the National Telecommunications Commission will assist in strengthening communication and connectivity services.

Meanwhile, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council will remain on standby for possible weather disturbances and emergencies during the school opening period.

Utility providers Manila Electric Company and Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System were also tasked with helping ensure uninterrupted electricity and water supply in schools.

DepEd added that public school teachers would remain free from administrative and clerical work during the preparation period so they could focus on classroom readiness.

To address concerns from parents and students, the Oplan Balik Eskwela Public Assistance Command Center will operate through hotlines, text messaging, email, and social media channels at the central, regional, division, and school levels. — VBL, GMA News