– 27 July 2024 –
The Philippine National School for the Blind came alive with energy and bayanihan as volunteers, parents, alumni, and partners joined forces for Brigada Eskwela 2024—a week-long effort that turned simple acts of service into meaningful transformation for the school community. Held from July 22 to 27, the annual activity showcased the unwavering commitment of stakeholders who generously dedicated their time, skills, and resources to prepare a safe, clean, and inspiring learning environment for all learners.
This year’s Brigada Eskwela began with thorough planning sessions involving the school administration, teachers, and parent volunteers. These early meetings laid the foundation for a smooth and organized implementation, ensuring that tasks—from cleaning to repairs—were aligned with the school’s needs and goals. Throughout the week, volunteers worked hand in hand to deep-clean classrooms, paint walls, fix furniture, and restore learning spaces to optimal condition. The repainting of hallways, cleaning of comfort rooms, and grooming of school grounds exemplified the community’s shared devotion to uplift the school environment.
Major improvements also extended beyond routine cleaning. Plumbing and electrical fixtures received necessary repairs, while landscaping activities such as tree pruning, lawn maintenance, and flower planting added vibrance to the surroundings. The installation of trash bins and the organization of waste disposal areas reinforced the school’s advocacy for environmental responsibility—one of the key messages promoted during the week.
One of the highlights of Brigada Eskwela 2024 was the remarkable community support it garnered. A total of 251 volunteers participated—including parents, BJMP officers, PICE laborers, and Premiere 3 stakeholders. Their contributions ranged from manual labor to technical tasks, reflecting a powerful collective effort. The school also received significant donations, including computer sets, printers, braille paper, paint, and cleaning supplies—resources that will directly benefit learners, especially those who rely on assistive technologies for reading and writing. The donation from Barangay San Lorenzo, Makati City, was particularly notable for its immediate impact on student learning materials.
Despite challenges such as limited manpower for certain tasks, delays in material procurement, and weather interruptions, the school community remained steadfast. Daily monitoring and debriefings ensured safety and steady progress. By the end of the week, classrooms, offices, and outdoor spaces had been visibly transformed—reflecting the dedication and cooperation that defined the event.
As Brigada Eskwela 2024 concluded, PNSB celebrated not only the physical improvements accomplished but also the strengthened partnerships and renewed sense of unity among stakeholders. The week stood as a testament to what can be achieved when a community works with one heart and purpose. The school expressed gratitude and encouraged continued collaboration in future initiatives, recognizing that maintaining a safe and nurturing learning environment requires shared, ongoing commitment.
