SM Malls in Caloocan and Valenzuela Join Forces to Prepare Public Schools for School Year 2026 to 2027

With the new school year just around the corner, thousands of students in Caloocan and Valenzuela are stepping back into classrooms that feel cleaner, safer, and more ready for learning.

This improvement did not happen by chance. It was made possible through a coordinated volunteer effort led by SM City Grand Central, SM Center Sangandaan, and SM City Valenzuela under the nationwide Brigada Eskwela 2026 program of the Department of Education.

Held on June 4 and 5, the two day initiative brought together employee volunteers from the three SM malls, all working side by side with public school communities. Guided by the theme “Bayanihan sa Paaralan: Nagkakaisa para sa Kaayusan at Kaalaman,” the activity emphasized a shared commitment to preparing schools not just physically, but also in spirit, for the coming academic year.

What unfolded was more than a seasonal clean up. It was a coordinated act of community care that showed how public and private sectors can work together to directly improve learning environments.

Schools Transformed Through Hands On Volunteer Work

In Caloocan, volunteers from SM City Grand Central headed to Bagong Barrio Elementary School. They repainted classroom walls, cleared and cleaned school grounds, and helped restore shared spaces that had worn down after months of daily use. The team also turned over hygiene kits, school supplies, cleaning materials, and gardening tools to support ongoing sanitation and greening efforts.

At Libis Talisay Elementary School, volunteers from SM Center Sangandaan focused on repainting classrooms, performing minor repairs, and strengthening sanitation measures. The school also received maintenance supplies such as paint, brushes, disinfectants, and learning materials to help sustain improvements beyond Brigada Eskwela week.

Meanwhile in Valenzuela, SM City Valenzuela led efforts at Caruhatan East Elementary School. Volunteers repainted classrooms, sanitized comfort rooms, repaired jalousie windows, and restored student desks and chairs. The result was a noticeable shift in the learning environment, making it more organized, functional, and welcoming for students returning to class.

Commitment That Continued Despite the Weather

Even with intermittent rains during the two day activity, volunteer teams continued their assigned tasks without delay. Their determination ensured that school preparation work stayed on track and was completed on time, reflecting a strong sense of responsibility and teamwork.

The simultaneous efforts across Caloocan and Valenzuela were organized through the Human Resources Department of SM Supermalls in partnership with SM Cares. This ongoing collaboration reflects the company’s long standing commitment to education and community development.

A Shared Push for Better Learning Spaces

As students prepare to return for School Year 2026 to 2027, the refreshed classrooms stand as a reminder that school readiness goes beyond enrollment and schedules. It is also about ensuring that learning spaces are safe, clean, and supportive of education.

Through the combined efforts of SM volunteers, school communities, and education partners, these public schools are set to welcome learners with improved facilities and renewed care. The initiative highlights a simple but powerful message: education works best when everyone contributes to it.