The feud between Makati and Taguig over the Supreme Court decision on territorial jurisdiction has spilled into public schools.
The Taguig City government, led by Mayor Lani Cayetano, conducted the “Brigada Eskwela” in schools in EMBO (Enlisted Men's Barrio) barangays in Makati that were declared by the SC as part of Taguig.
Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano at Makati Science High School (Photo from the Taguig City government)
It denied that it forcibly took over public school buildings in EMBO barangays and appealed for understanding regarding the transition of control and supervision of the public schools.
In a statement, the Taguig LGU said “the Department of Education issued Memorandum Order 2023-735 transferring the management and supervision of affected schools within these barangays from the DepEd Division of Makati to the Division of Taguig and Pateros.”
It said, in preparation for the Brigada Eskwela and opening of classes, “the DepEd Superintendent of Taguig and Pateros has requested assistance from the City of Taguig, including the deployment of security personnel to ensure the welfare of the students, teachers, and staff, and the peaceful and orderly conduct of the aforesaid activities.”
The Taguig LGU “instructed its security provider to coordinate with the school superintendent, the City of Makati, the former security provider, the Philippine National Police, and all relevant agencies.”
Regarding the statement of Makati City Administrator Claro Certeza of forcible takeover of public school buildings, the Taguig City government said, “It is clear that these statements serve no other purpose than to sow fear and uncertainty among the residents of these barangays at a time when public officials from both sides of the fence should be coming together to make the transfer as seamless as possible.”
Cayetano appealed to the General Parents Teachers Association officers and members for understanding and patience as the transition takes place, and vowed to work closely with the school heads and division officials to address the urgent concerns of teachers and students.
“While we understand that emotions still run high and it is not easy to accept the ruling of the Supreme Court, we also reiterate that there is a point where professionalism, duty to the people, and adherence to the law must rise to the top,” the Taguig LGU said.
The Taguig LGU kicked off Brigada Eskwela in EMBO schools with the presence of the Taguig City Police Station, National Capital Region Police Office, Southern Police District and Bureau of Fire Protection.
According to Cayetano, the Taguig City government had already prepared school kits which will be distributed to the students soon.
After visiting Makati Science High School, Cayetano went to the Fort Bonifacio High School and Fort Bonifacio Elementary School.