The Department of Education (DepEd) Region 7 in Central Visayas, Philippines, is urging parents to enroll their children as early as possible to avoid missing crucial lessons. As classes for the 2026-2027 school year commenced on June 8, officials warned that late enrollment could hinder students' ability to keep pace with classroom learning and competencies. Dr. Helen D. Sabino, chief of the Policy, Planning and Research Division, stated that schools will accept late enrollees as long as they can attend at least 80% of the school days. However, Tomas Pastor, chief of the Education Support Services Division, highlighted that learning competencies are introduced right after classes begin, making it difficult for latecomers to catch up. Currently, DepEd 7 has reported around 1.3 million enrollees, with expectations to reach approximately 1.6 million. The department also conducted an early registration period starting in February to minimize late enrollments. Additionally, help desks under the Oplan Balik Eskwela program are available to address concerns related to late enrollment and school zoning policies.