President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday directed the Department of Education (DepEd) to prioritize the provision of essential utilities—particularly electricity, water, and internet—in public schools to improve learning conditions as the school year 2025-2026 officially opened.

“’Yung kuryente, or making sure na may kuryente lahat, may tubig lahat. ‘Yun ang mga basic services na makikita natin para naman maging maayos ang pag-aaral ng mga ating kabataan (Electricity, making sure everyone has it, and water — those are the basic services we need to see to ensure good education for our children),” Marcos told reporters after inspecting a school in Malate, Manila for the reopening of classes.

He emphasized an all-agency approach to educational support.

“Nabanggit ko sa ating mga guro na lahat ng departamento ng pamahalaan ay naka-converge dito, sama-samang nagtutulungan (I mentioned to our teachers that all government departments are converging here, working together),” he said.

The President also issued specific instructions to several departments — for the trade and transportation departments to work to lower the expenses of parents and students; for the health department to ensure the availability of health facilities in case a child gets sick or injured; and for the social welfare department to work on cyberbullying and bullying incidents to protect children’s mental health.

President Marcos led an interactive learning session with Grade 1 students, utilizing flashcards to promote reading and active participation.

The Chief Executive was also briefed on the school’s current security measures, including the use of CCTV monitoring. (PNA)