DAVAO CITY (June 12) — The spirit of bayanihan came alive once again as Teofilo V. Fernandez Elementary School and Teofilo V. Fernandez National High School jointly launched Brigada Eskwela 2025, carrying the theme “Sama-sama para sa Bayang Bumabasa.”
To officially open the weeklong program, DepEd Davao City Schools Division Superintendent Reynante A. Solitario led a ceremonial tree planting activity early in the morning.
Brigada Eskwela, a nationwide initiative of the Department of Education (DepEd), began on June 9 and runs until June 15, in preparation for the opening of classes on June 16, 2025. This year’s campaign highlights the importance of strengthening literacy, particularly reading and numeracy skills among Filipino learners.
In his speech, SDS Solitario emphasized the value of volunteerism and collective action in shaping not just the physical learning environment, but also students’ academic growth.
“Ang bayang bumabasa ay ang bayang may pag-asa. No learner should be left behind, especially in learning how to read and compute. Let’s work together to improve learners’ comprehension and numeracy skills. When a community unites, no goal is out of reach. Padayon sa pag-alagad. Tara na, mag-Brigada na ta!”
Throughout the day, volunteers participated in various activities including classroom cleaning and repainting, repairing broken chairs and desks, gardening, and planting ornamental plants around the school grounds. Reading nooks were also established in designated grade-level areas, thanks to the support of local sponsors and teachers.
As Brigada Eskwela 2025 continues throughout the week, the message is clear: through unity, teamwork, and shared commitment, communities can build learning environments that foster literacy and prepare students for success. With every hand extended—be it in service, support, or sponsorship—education becomes a true community mission.
