The school year 2025-2026 officially began today, according to the Department of Education (DepEd), with an estimated 27.6 million students returning to classes nationwide. Education Secretary Sonny Angara joined President Marcos in visiting selected schools in Manila, Taguig, Biñan, and Sta. Rose.
To ensure the safety of students and teachers, the PNP has deployed more than 37,000 police officers in 45,974 schools. It has also set up 5,079 Police Assistance Desks and launched foot and mobile patrols, especially in crowded areas.
Meanwhile, the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) announced that teachers are fully prepared for the opening of classes. But they are calling for broader support from the government, especially in the shortage of classrooms, chairs, books, and facilities such as CR and water. In addition, support for the new Senior High School (SHS) curriculum is still lacking.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has warned about bullying and mental health problems, especially in senior high schools. He plans to hold caravans to educate parents and the community on how to deal with these issues. He also cited the need for faster construction of new classrooms, as they sometimes take years to complete.
Although there are new benefits such as the P7,000 medical allowance for teachers and staff, the TDC said it was implemented late. They called for faster action so that teachers are not the only ones to bear the burden of the education system.
