The “new normal” that has emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic is also affecting the education sector, particularly in how programs like Brigada Eskwela was carried out and with adjustments being made to the learning situation for both students and teachers. Understanding this, CitySavings has pledged its support to the Department of Education (DepEd) for the government’s Basic Education – Learning Continuity Plan (BE-LCP).
As DepEd held its first-ever virtual Brigada Eskwela kick-off on June 1, Usec. Tonisito Umali provided further details on the modified initiative.
“The activities shall highlight partnership initiatives that complement DepEd’s efforts to ensure that quality basic education will continue despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, and to implement the BE-LCP,” he said.
The partnership activities with stakeholders include disinfection of schools, mobilization of essential resources, psychological first aid sessions or psycho-social interventions, orientation activities on DepEd’s learning continuity plan with partners and school PTAs (parent-teacher associations), distance learning, gulayan sa paaralan/tahanan, as well as other school-based initiatives and partnership appreciation.
For these engagement, CitySavings initially donated safety and sanitation essentials such as alcohol, sanitizers, disinfectants, face masks, gloves, and thermal scanners to regional and division offices and selected schools nationwide. Currently, the bank is coordinating with DepEd to address other needs in preparation for the opening of classes on August 24.
CitySavings President and CEO Lorenzo Ocampo reiterated the bank’s commitment to DepEd’s bold and innovative response to the pandemic.
As with Brigada Eskwela, CitySavings will support this learning continuity plan that ensures the well-being of teachers and students in this challenging time, and with you, we look forward to better times ahead.
– Lorenzo Ocampo, President & CEO, CitySavings
Beneficiaries of the bank’s continued support for the modified Brigada Eskwela have also expressed their appreciation.
“Everyone’s main concern now is safety. The donation from City Savings Bank is a big help for the Region to help fight against COVID-19. We are happy to engage with the CitySavings as we prepare our teachers, learners, and schools for the new normal,” said Ramir Uytico, Regional Director for DepEd Eastern Visayas.
(PR by Jomes Kemuel Ibañez)
