Bacacay: The Department of Education in Bicol (DepEd-5) will host the national kick-off event of the annual Brigada Eskwela in Bacacay town, Albay province on June 9. In an interview Thursday, Mark Kevin Arroco, DepEd-5 project development officer, said the activity marks the official start of the school maintenance program nationwide as the school year 2025-2026 begins on June 16.

According to Philippines News Agency, expected guests during the event include DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara and other department executives. "The event will occur at Bacacay East Central School in Bacacay, Albay. Our central office recognizes DepEd-5's outstanding performance in resource mobilization during previous Brigada Eskwela events. Resource mobilization involves financial contributions and the engagement of the community, local government units, and various sectors of society," he said.

Arroco stated that the host school will showcase its best practices during the event. "Bacacay East Central School has been recognized multiple times for its active implementation of Brigada Eskwela. They have also established strong partnerships within the 1st district. Everyone is invited to join and voluntarily contribute their time or resources to support Brigada Eskwela activities in public schools across the region," he added.

A series of activities will be held on June 9, including the presentation of the Brigada Eskwela Model School, the symbolic turnover of donations and commitment pledges, and the 2024 Healthy Learning Institution Awarding. Other activities include repainting and minor repairs of infrastructure, reading and storytelling sessions, a seminar on anti-bullying, learners' health assessment, and school inventory.

Arroco mentioned that around 1.7 million learners from the region are expected for the coming school year.