Atty. Benjamin ‘Benhur’ Abalos, Jr.
DILG Secretary

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), including all our attached agencies and local government units (LGUs), supports the Department of Education (DepEd) in ensuring the smooth implementation of Oplan Balik Eskwela (OBE) for the opening of classes this School Year 2022-2023 today, August 22, 2022.

As early as July, we have already worked with LGUs to undertake the necessary measures and preparations in coordination with concerned government agencies ensuring the smooth opening of classes and the safety and security of the students.

Among such measures are: to ensure that the road networks near schools are secure, clean, and free from obstructions and hindrances; coordinate with DepEd and the Department of Public Works and Highways for the conduct of building inspections to ensure the structural integrity of school facilities; utilize their Special Education Fund for the construction, repair, and maintenance of school buildings and facilities; and, ensure the placement of measures to prevent the outbreak of dengue fever.

During the commencement of classes, LGUs are also expected to ensure the smooth flow of traffic in the vicinity of schools, and to strictly enforce the minimum public health standards in schools where in-person classes shall be conducted. They are also urged to continue their COVID-19 pediatric vaccination campaigns.

We have also mobilized the Philippine National Police, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology to fully assist in the implementation of OBE, particularly in guaranteeing the safety of the student populace and helping in the conduct of clean-up drives and voluntary repair works in schools.

All DILG Regional and Field Offices are likewise expected to provide technical coordination and assistance to LGUs in the implementation of OBE activities.

We assure the academic community and the general public that all hands are on deck for a smooth, safe, and hassle-free opening of classes this school year.

The DILG and our partner LGUs are one with Vice President and DepEd Secretary Sara Z. Duterte’s efforts to improve the quality of education and address the current challenges of basic education in the new normal.

Original Article at: https://dilg.gov.ph/news/DILG-Statement-of-Support-for-DepEd/NC-2022-1125