June 16, 2025 – Beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in the CALABARZON Region assisted in the preparation of schools for the opening of classes for the school year 2025-2026. From June 9-13, 2025, various parent groups supported the Department of Education’s Brigada Esk’wela in different public schools in the region.

Throughout the week, parent groups of 4Ps beneficiaries participated in activities including cleaning of classrooms and school premises, minor repairs, and painting among others.

According to May Joice Ann Lasquety, a 4Ps parent leader from Atimonan, Quezon, beneficiaries like them voluntarily participated in the Brigada Esk’wela to ensure that the schools are clean and, more importantly, safe for their children once the classes open.

“Ang paaralan ang pangalawang tahanan ng aming mga anak kaya naman naging layunin naming mga magulang na siguruhin na maaliwalas ang kapaligiran upang makapag-aral sila nang maayos araw-araw,” shared Jasmin Lirio, a 4Ps parent leader from Rosario, Batangas.

The participation of 4Ps beneficiaries in community activities such as the Brigada Esk’wela is part of the continuous advocacy of the DSWD towards active citizenship and active community participation of 4Ps households. Through the monthly Family Development Sessions, beneficiaries are encouraged to take an active role in the development of their communities.

“Ang aming pakikilahok at pakikiisa sa paghahanda ng paaralan ay nagpapakita ng aming malasakit sa mga mag-aaral at sa buong komunidad. Ito ay tanda ng aming pagiging responsableng mamamayan,” shared Marivic Saclag, a 4Ps parent leader from Lucena City.

Meanwhile, in Ibaan, Batangas, the Ibaan Parents Association donated cleaning materials to the school.

“Ang pagbibigay ng cleaning supplies ay bahagi ng layunin ng aming asosasyon na makatulong sa komunidad,” shared Maria Fe Revilla, the president of the Ibaan Parents Association.

The said association is a community group initiated by 4Ps parent leaders in the said town that implements projects such as trash collection to support initiatives such as provision of financial assistance to members and other community activities.#