President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed government agencies to ensure a smooth and safe return to school, highlighting the need to ease students’ financial burdens and protect their well-being.
Speaking during a visit to Epifanio Delos Santos Elementary School in Manila, Marcos Jr. thanked teachers and school staff for the orderly opening of classes. He encouraged educators to report their needs through DepEd offices or local government units.
“Kung ano pa ang inyong nakikita na puwedeng pagandahin pa, sabihan nyo lang kami… Congratulations sa maayos na first day of school,” he said in a teleconference with schools nationwide.
The President instructed various agencies—including Department of Health, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Transportation, Philippine National Police, and the Department of Information and Communication Technology—to support schools by ensuring affordable school supplies, medical services, security, mental health programs, and internet connectivity.
He also ordered the installation of CCTV systems to enhance campus safety.
“Lahat talaga ng departamento, hanggang sa Office of the President, ay nakabantay ngayon sa inyo. Ito ang pinakaimportante naming ginagawa,” said Marcos Jr.
The Chief Executive noted that 16,000 of 20,000 new teacher positions have been filled. Education Secretary Sonny Angara added that 10,000 administrative staff will be hired to reduce teachers’ workload.IMT
