DepEd intensifies efforts to restore education access in typhoon-hit Bicol

The Department of Education (DepEd) is intensifying its efforts to restore education access for students affected by Super Typhoon Uwan and Typhoon Tino by combining school recovery operations with alternative learning delivery modes.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the agency's commitment to prioritizing learners' welfare during a visit to storm-hit areas in Bicol with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

Secretary Angara stated, "We will not stop repairing schools, providing alternative ways of learning, and returning every child to their right to education safely and quickly."

The Bicol Region (Region V) experienced the most severe damage, with 807 schools reporting destruction that affected 5,742 classrooms.

Of the damaged classrooms, 743 were completely destroyed, with the highest impact recorded in Albay, Masbate, and Catanduanes.

DepEd has already downloaded P326 million for the Bicol Region to address damages in around 1,319 schools.

Additional funds for clean-up, clearing operations, and minor repairs are also being prepared for release this week.