Brigada Eskwela 2025 regional launch features JA Philippines-FWD partnership
Highlights community-driven school preparation
Group photo with Asec. Nilo Rosas, Regional Director Jocelyn Andaya, Assistant Regional Director Joel Torrecampo, and Mayor Imelda Calixto-Rubiano
The Regional Kick-Off for Brigada Eskwela 2025 was held last June 9, 2025, at Jose Rizal Elementary School with the attendance of distinguished leaders including DepEd NCR Regional Director Asec. Jocelyn DR Andaya, Assistant Regional Director Joel Torrecampo, Pasay City Mayor Hon. Imelda Calixto-Rubiano, and guest of honor Assistant Secretary Nilo L. Rosas.
Adding depth to the program was the partnership between FWD Life Insurance and Junior Achievement Philippines, represented by Ms. Michelle Lim. Speaking on behalf of their collaboration, she shared that their programs "Spark the Dream" reached 8,822 students across 58 schools, and "It's My Dream" equipped 600 out-of-school youth with entrepreneurship skills and financial literacy capabilities.
In attendance at the event were Alternative Learning System (ALS) students from Pasay who participated in the "It's My Dream" program. These students established food stalls during the event, confidently engaging with attendees and managing their operations. Their smooth operation showcased the entrepreneurial foundation and practical business skills they developed through the program, demonstrating genuine application of skills and adaptability in a real-world environment.
Their seamless transition to real-world application highlighted how the program equipped them with transferable skills that extend across different situations.
Speaking about the partnership's impact, Ms. Michelle Lim emphasized their commitment to empowering Filipino youth: "We encourage a mindset shift as we help young Filipinos believe in their potential, plan for their future, and take charge of their own lives. By nurturing young minds and equipping them with the tools to dream boldly and plan wisely, we contribute to a generation that is not only ready for the future but also ready to shape it, to lead it."
The participation of these "It's My Dream" ALS students embodied the spirit of Brigada Eskwela, which is primarily bringing the community together to support education. Their booths became focal points of inspiration, demonstrating the tangible results of investing in youth development. These young entrepreneurs showed how community partnerships and bayanihan can develop individuals with practical skills that prepare them not just for the classroom, but for meaningful contribution to their communities.
Group photo of It's My Dream program ALS Students from Pasay in their booths
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