PPA Joins Nationwide Community Efforts in Balik Eskwela Initiatives

In the fulfillment of its mandate, the Philippine Ports Authority has gone beyond the management of the country’s ports by empowering schools and communities nationwide through this year’s Brigada Eskwela. 

Going further from its core duties and responsibilities of providing efficient port services and facilities that supports national development and transportation, the Authority has taken steps to also help the Marcos Jr.’s trust in promoting a whole-of-nation approach towards development through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs. 

Recently, the agency has made significant strides in supporting the education sector—extending its reach from ports to classrooms and from maritime operations to meaningful community impact. 

From providing school supplies and hygiene kits to improving school facilities and feeding volunteers, PPA’s port management offices (PMOs) across the country has continued its active participation in Brigada Eskwela as well as other community-based educational initiatives. 

In several identified schools and educational institutions, the PPA-PMO NOS extended a hand to Sibulan National High School, where they donated paving blocks to repair long-neglected pathways. This initiative, held during the school’s Brigada Eskwela kickoff, to ensure safer and more accessible routes for students and teachers. 

In Masbate, PPA-PMO Masbate offered food and drinks to Brigada Eskwela volunteers at the Masbate National Comprehensive High School, showing appreciation for their efforts in preparing learning spaces for the incoming academic year. This initiative strengthens the agency’s connection with local communities and reinforces its support for educational programs. 

Meanwhile, PPA-PMO Lanao del Norte/Iligan conducted a donation drive at Iligan City North Central School, distributing slippers, school supplies, and hygiene kits to students. The effort, aligns with this year’s Brigada Eskwela theme, “Bayanihan para sa Matatag na Paaralan.” It highlights PPA’s commitment to improving both the health and education of Filipino children. 

In Cagayan de Oro, PMO Misamis Oriental/Cagayan de Oro contributed cleaning materials, paint, and school supplies to Macabalan National High School as part of their Brigada Eskwela engagement. 

These initiatives are part of PPA’s continuing commitment to nation-building under the leadership of General Manager Jay Santiago. In February 2025, the agency donated essential equipment to Manila Science High School—including computers, printers, office tables, chairs, and storage units—to help enhance the students’ learning environment. Complementing these efforts, the PPA also conducts Port Educational Tours across the country to introduce students to port operations and highlight the vital role of the maritime industry in national development. 

Moreover, as part of the broader Oplan Biyaheng Ayos 2025 initiative, PPA PMOs continue to ensure that ports remain safe, secure, and clean through heightened inspections, strengthened emergency preparedness, and the consistent operation of Malasakit Help Desks to provide immediate assistance to passengers in need. 

“These CSR programs are a reflection of PPA’s enduring commitment to national development—not just in trade and mobility, but in the formation of young minds and the support of educational institutions,” said GM Santiago. 

With the continued roll-out of its education-focused initiatives, the PPA proves that its service reaches far beyond the shoreline—building not just better ports, but better communities.