DepEd promises aid to schools, teachers, students affected by typhoons

The Department of Education (DepEd) has pledged swift and immediate support for schools, teachers, and students impacted by recent typhoons and the southwest monsoon.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara assured that DepEd will prioritize the rapid recovery of educational institutions and personnel affected by calamities, and led the distribution of assistance in some areas.

DepEd's Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service is already releasing funds for immediate cleaning and clearing operations in affected schools.

Schools have been directed to implement contingency plans, secure learning resources, and coordinate with local disaster management bodies.

The agency is working with the Department of Public Works and Highways to use quick response funds for school infrastructure repair.

DepEd will also provide additional aid through the National Indemnity Insurance Program, offering insurance for public school buildings against natural disasters.

Teachers and staff in calamity-declared areas may also avail of DepEd's Provident Fund loan, while the Department's Human Resource units are ready to assist in processing Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Calamity Loans and applications for a 30-day Calamity Leave.