In Cebu City, Philippines, the annual Brigada Eskwela program kicked off on June 1, 2026, as parents, teachers, and community volunteers gathered to prepare schools for the upcoming academic year. This year's preparations are particularly significant due to the introduction of a new trimestral calendar by the Department of Education (DepEd), which will divide the school year into three terms: June to September, September to December, and January to March. Principal Anatolia Patosa of Cebu City Central Elementary School highlighted the strong community participation, which included outreach to private companies and government agencies. Despite the excitement, some parents voiced concerns about the shift to the new calendar and the financial burden of school supplies. Teachers, like Ejie Cabucos, stress the importance of parental support in reinforcing classroom learning at home. As the new school year approaches, the collaborative efforts of the school community reflect a shared commitment to education, regardless of the challenges faced.