Soldiers of the Philippine Army’s 8th Infantry Division (8ID) joined this year’s Brigada Eskwela, helping repair and clean public schools across Eastern Visayas ahead of the June 8 opening of classes.
Working with local government units, teachers, parents and community volunteers, 8ID troops were deployed to schools in Samar, Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Leyte, Southern Leyte and Biliran as part of the Department of Education-led annual school maintenance program.
The soldiers helped paint classrooms, repair roofs, clear school grounds, fix furniture and carry out minor construction work to make learning spaces safer and more conducive for students.
The 8ID said special attention was given to far-flung schools in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas, where access to manpower, materials and volunteer support is often limited.
The division said its participation in Brigada Eskwela reflects the Army’s role not only as a defender of the country, but also as a partner in community-building.
“Joining Brigada Eskwela is our way of investing in the future of our children and strengthening our bond with the communities we serve. Every repaired desk, every freshly painted wall, every cleared pathway is a message to our children that their education matters, and that the Philippine Army stands with them,” the 8ID said.
At Catbalogan 5 Central Elementary School, Principal Renante Legatub said the soldiers’ assistance helped ease the burden on teachers, many of whom usually take on the physical work of preparing classrooms before the start of the school year.
“Napakalaking tulong, and we are very grateful na pinupuntahan kami dito ng mga external stakeholders gaya ng mga sundalo para mas mapabilis ang trabaho ng mga teachers para maging ready sa pasukan this coming June 8,” Legatub said.
He added that cleaner and more presentable classrooms help encourage students to study.
The 8ID said its involvement in Brigada Eskwela supports the government’s whole-of-nation approach to peace and development, recognizing that lasting security is also built through educated, empowered and united communities.
The division also encouraged military and civilian personnel, retirees and their families to volunteer in their respective communities and take part in the bayanihan spirit of Brigada Eskwela.