ILIGAN CITY (PIA)-- As it prepares for the opening of classes in September, the Department of Education (DepEd) Lanao del Norte officially launched this year's Brigada Eskwela through a virtual kick-off Monday, August 16.

The kick-off program highlighted the efforts on strengthening the engagement of education stakeholders and partners to ensure continuity of learning despite the prevailing health crisis.

Lanao del Norte Schools Division Superintendent Edilberto L Oplenaria said this year's Brigada Eskwela with the theme "Bayanihan Para sa Paaralan" is a call for action especially at this time when everyone is faced with uncertainties. 

"This is DepEd's friendly reminder that despite the numerous setbacks in the implementation of the Basic Education Learning Continuity Plan, we are still committed to deliver quality, equitable, and culture-based education," he said.

One highlight of the kick-off program was the launching of Brigada Pagbasa, a form of Brigada Eskwela focusing on the promotion of literacy and numeracy through the help of DepEd partners and volunteers.

Winners of the 2020 Brigada Eskwela Regional Search for Best Implementing Schools were also presented. These are Dalama Central Elementary School (CES) that won 1st Place in Medium Category, Baroy CES as 2nd Placer in Large School Category, and Maranding CES as 3rd Placer in Mega Category.

Save The Children Philippines also turned over LCD projectors and Smart televisions to select schools in the province.

Meanwhile, DepEd Lanao del Norte guarantees that the implementation of Brigada Eskwela shall comply with the required health and safety protocols set by the Provincial Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases and the Department of Health. (APB/PIA-ICIC)