BALANGA CITY (PIA) — The Department of Education (DepEd) has recorded a total of 116,197 enrolled learners from Kindergarten to Grade 12 in Bataan for School Year 2025–2026.
This figure, recorded as of June 12, represents 71.86 percent of last year’s enrollment total of 161,709.
During the Oplan Balik Eskwela Interagency Meeting held in Balanga City, DepEd Bataan Schools Division Superintendent Carolina Violeta said they expect the number to rise significantly by the opening of classes on Monday, June 16, as many parents continue to enroll their children on the first day of school.
She also emphasized the need for community-wide support and collaboration from partner agencies and stakeholders to ensure a smooth and safe school year.
“I would like to quote Helen Keller: ‘Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.’ That is why we are knocking at your benevolent hearts to support us this coming school year until it ends on March 31, 2026,” she said.
Assistant Schools Division Superintendent Armando Capili echoed this call and urged partner agencies, particularly the Philippine National Police, to help manage crowds and traffic during the first week of classes.
“It is more than teaching, more than chalk and board, more than the supplies. What we need are partners to ensure the safety of our learners and gradually improve the quality of education in the province. DepEd cannot do this alone,” Capili said.
Meanwhile, School Governance and Operations Division Chief Education Supervisor Ramon Perez reported that as of June 12, the Brigada Eskwela campaign recorded 97,552 volunteers and P47,554,669.00 in donations.
“I would also like to announce that 47 out of 71 private schools in Bataan will begin classes on Monday,” he added.
As the new school year begins, DepEd Bataan reaffirms its commitment to delivering quality education and ensuring the safety and well-being of all learners.
The department calls on parents, community members, and partner agencies to continue working together to create a productive and nurturing environment throughout the school year. (CLJD/RPQ, PIA Region 3-Bataan)
