Manila, June 9 -- Schools across the country received health equipment and medical services as part of this year's "Brigada Eskwela" kickoff event Monday, ahead of the opening of classes next week.

About 83 schools nationwide were honored by the Department of Health (DOH) as "health champions" and given "Bawat Bata Malusog" (Every Child Healthy) packages, which include blood pressure monitors, weighing scales, first aid kits, and other essential items for school clinics.

Last Mile Schools also benefited from kits containing teacher self-care items and sports and exercise equipment.

To enhance disaster preparedness, the DOH is also distributing emergency response kits.

Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa distributed some of the items in h...