City of San Fernando, Pampanga—The Department of Education Region III is looking forward to more than 2.3 million students in public schools in Central Luzon on June 5, marking the full implementation of the K to 12 Basic Education Curriculum this School Year 2017-2018.

173,661 Kindergarten, 1,334,853 elementary, 681,413 junior high school, and 192,310 senior high school students are expected to continue their studies in public schools, which include the first batch of Grade 12 students. A total of 66 new public senior high schools have been established and added to the existing 467 public senior high schools in the entire  region.

DepEd Regional Director Malcolm Garma, who remains optimistic regarding the opening of classes despite the lack of resources, also encouraged parents to send their children to school starting on the first day of classes. “What is important is that kung meron man tayong kakulangan is that nagagawan natin ng paraan pagdating ng opening of classes. We also encourage our parents to let their kids experience the welcoming atmosphere of our schools,” Garma said.

He also reminded school officials of the strict policy of the Department regarding the non-collection of fees and charges in public schools in Central Luzon during enrollment. Garma added that he instructed all public schools to post a “No Collection Policy” signage to inform the parents and all stakeholders.

In line with the opening of classes on June 5, the Department of Education has activated the Oplan Balik Eskwela Information and Action Centers in the Central, Regional, Schools Division offices nationwide from May 29 to June 16, 2017. The OBE aims to address commonly encountered problems at the start of the school year, which will ensure that learners are properly enrolled and will be able to attend school on the first day of classes.

The Regional OBE Information Action Center can be reached through the hotlines (045)5988580 to 89 and email address region3@deped.gov.ph.•