MANILA: The Department of Education (DepEd) has announced that preparations are complete for the return of approximately 27 million students to schools on Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, DepEd Media Relations chief Dennis Legaspi communicated via a Viber message to reporters that everything is set for the opening of classes. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is expected to visit Epifanio delos Santos Elementary School in Manila, accompanied by DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara. Secretary Angara will also visit schools in Taguig, Bi±an, and the City of Santa Rosa in Laguna provinces.

Under the leadership of Secretary Angara, the school calendar has reverted to its original June to March schedule to align with the President's directive to minimize learning disruptions caused by weather-related school closures. DepEd has also distributed laptops to teachers and non-teaching staff and procured smart TV packages to enhance educational outcomes. Additionally, textbook procurement has reached near completion for certain grade levels.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is also fully prepared for the school opening. PNP Chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III stated that 37,740 police officers would be deployed to ensure security in both public and private schools. Police Assistance Desks will be staffed with officers to support students, parents, and staff, while mobile and foot patrols will ensure police presence in key areas.

Gen. Torre emphasized the priority of student and staff safety and urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. PNP personnel have also participated in pre-opening activities such as classroom cleaning and repairs as part of the "Brigada Eskwela" initiative.