BUZZ BEAT MEDIA

At San Joaquin and Rosario Elementary School in Pasig, which are now serving as evacuation centers for families displaced by recent flooding, learning has not come to a halt. Despite the difficult conditions, teachers and volunteers continue to conduct basic learning sessions and provide Psychological First Aid (PFA) to children sheltered in the schools’ makeshift classrooms. 

These efforts reflect the Department of Education’s (DepEd) commitment to uphold learning continuity during disasters, in line with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive to safeguard the rights of children—including their right to education—even in times of crisis.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara, who visited flood-hit schools in Malabon and Navotas this week, stressed the importance of being ready with alternatives when schools are affected. 

“May mga paaralan ang nakapagpatupad ng emergency protocols at may mga guro tayong agad nagpakita ng malasakit at dedikasyon. Pero hindi rin natin maikakaila na may mga lugar na hirap makabangon agad. Kailangan pa nating pag-ibayuhin ang suporta sa kanila, lalo na sa pagbibigay ng learning materials, psychosocial aid, at pansamantalang espasyo para sa pag-aaral,” Angara said. 

As of 5:00 p.m. on July 24, a total of 24,649 schools across the country have suspended in-person classes due to heavy rains and flooding, with 442 schools currently being used as evacuation centers in ten regions—including NCR, Regions I, II, III, IV-A, IV-B, VI, IX, CAR, and NIR. 

In several of these areas, Schools Division Offices (SDOs) have begun implementing Structured Alternative Learning Delivery Modes such as modular instruction and guided group learning, allowing education to continue for displaced learners in temporary shelters. 

Sec. Angara emphasized that while the safety of children is paramount, providing structured learning in evacuation centers gives them a sense of normalcy and helps in their recovery.  

“Alam nating hindi madaling mag-aral habang lumikas o apektado ng baha, pero mahalaga pa ring may ginagawa ang mga bata. Kahit simpleng aktibidad, malaking tulong ito sa kanilang pagbangon,” he added, thanking teachers and volunteers for their dedication to help amid the disaster.  

DepEd’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service (DRRMS) reported that 2,492 classrooms have sustained minor damage, 726 classrooms have major damage, 732 are totally destroyed, and 327 WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) facilities have been affected. In response, DepEd has initiated the release of over P17 million to support affected schools—P6.98 million for immediate cleaning and clearing, and P10.04 million for minor classroom repairs. 

Field offices have also been directed to activate contingency plans, secure vital school equipment and records, and coordinate closely with local disaster response units. 

DepEd assured the public that it remains vigilant in monitoring the situation and is working to protect both the welfare and the learning continuity of Filipino students—especially during emergencies. 

*All Photos from Manila Bulletin.com