MANILA -- All Regional and District Engineering Offices of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) are now coordinating with public elementary and high schools’ nationwide to support the conduct of Oplan Balik Eskwela (OBE) of the Department of Education (DepEd).

As instructed by DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan, DPWH Assistant Secretary Antonio V. Molano Jr. issued a memorandum ordering ROs and DEOs across the country to implement maintenance activities and programs in public schools prior to the reopening of face-to-face classes this year.

“As a contribution to DepEd’s annual OBE Progam, our implementing offices were instructed once again to undertake measures that would help in ensuring smooth and orderly opening of classes, said Secretary Bonoan.

Yearly, DPWH implements various maintenance works in public schools under OBE.  Activities include painting or repainting of pedestrian lanes fronting schools, declogging of drainage and cleaning of manholes near schools, repair of dilapidated chairs, classroom ceilings, washrooms, and entrance gates, in coordination with respective school heads.

This year, DPWH offices were also ordered to organize OBE outreach programs in at least two (2) remote schools per DEO in their jurisdiction. They shall organize tree planting activities inside schools, donation drive of school supplies, books, facemasks, and food packs, among other activities. (DPWH)