DepEd pledges support for schools hit by storms

Education Secretary Sonny Angara pledged immediate support on Thursday for schools affected by recent storms and monsoon rains, emphasizing the Department of Education's commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of learners and educators.

Angara personally led visits to damaged schools in Navotas and Malabon, addressing class disruptions caused by tropical cyclones Emong, Dante, and Crising, as well as the enhanced southwest monsoon.

The DepEd’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service (DRRMS) has released over PHP18 million in assistance to 222 affected schools, allocating PHP10.143 million for minor classroom repairs and PHP7.86 million for immediate cleaning and clearing operations.

As of Friday, the initial assessment showed that 2,628 classrooms had minor damage; 726 had major damage; 732 were destroyed; and 327 hygiene facilities were damaged.

Teachers and staff in affected areas can avail of financial assistance options such as DepEd's Provident Fund loan and GSIS Calamity Loans, with medical reimbursements and accidental death claims covered through the Group Personal Accident Insurance policy.

Alternative delivery modes (ADM) are being implemented in some evacuation centers to help displaced learners cope and recover, including basic learning sessions that serve as psychological first aid at San Joaquin and Rosario Elementary Schools in Pasig.