BUZZ BEAT MEDIA

The Department of Education (DepEd) reported that at least 312 public schools sustained infrastructure damage following the onslaught of Super Typhoon Uwan, with Bicol and CALABARZON among the hardest hit regions. 

The November 10, 12pm Situation Report from the DepEd Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service (DRRMS) showed that 1,182 classrooms suffered minor damage, 366 classrooms were majorly damaged, and 261 were totally damaged. These figures are still being verified as additional reports continue to arrive from regional and division offices. 

Echoing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call for all agencies to remain on full alert and safeguard the safety of their constituents, Education Secretary Sonny Angara assured affected communities that the department is committed to the immediate protection of students, teachers, and school personnel as well as the long-term continuity of learning. 

“Mabigat ang pinagdadaanan ng ating mga guro, magulang, at mag-aaral sa nagdaang Bagyong Uwan at Tino. Nakikiramay tayo sa ating mga kababayan at tinitiyak namin sa DepEd na kasama ninyo kami sa bawat hakbang ng pagbangon at muling pagbuo ng pag-asa sa bawat silid-aralan,” Secretary Angara said. 

Bicol, CALABARZON, and CAR recorded the highest numbers of damaged classrooms due to Uwan.  

DepEd also reported that 5,572 classrooms in 1,072 schools across 11 regions are being used as evacuation centers, temporarily sheltering displaced families. The department continues to work closely with local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (DRRMCs) for rapid assessment and relief coordination. 

To address immediate recovery needs, DepEd has identified funding requirements of ₱20.2 million for clean-up and clearing operations and ₱57.9 million for minor repairs.  

Angara added that it has prioritized the implementation of Alternative Delivery Modes (ADMs) in schools that remain closed due to recent typhoons and other calamities. Funds have been downloaded to the regions to produce learning packets and lesson guides under the Dynamic Learning Program (DLP) and other ADM modalities. 

DepEd said it remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of learners and teachers while full verification of the damage continues. 

*All Photos from DepEd