DepEd: Typhoon Carina damages over 12K schools, needs P630M for repairs

The Department of Education (DepEd) reported that super typhoon Carina and the enhanced southwest monsoon caused damage to over 12,000 schools across multiple regions, requiring an estimated P630 million for reconstruction.

Damage assessments showed impacts in CAR, Metro Manila, Regions I, II, III, IV-A, IV-B, V, VI, and VIII, with additional data indicating that 425 schools are now being used as evacuation centers for about 93,480 displaced persons.

As of Friday, DepEd noted the need to assess and deploy personnel for the start of School Year 2024-2025 on July 29, including plans to identify vulnerable areas and construct resilient classrooms. However, at least 738 public schools in CAR, NCR, and Regions 3 and 12 will not be able to join in the opening of classes.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara also expressed similar preparations for La Niña, citing alternative delivery modes such as blended learning, modular, and online classes when needed. He stated that the openings in Malabon City and Valenzuela City would be delayed to July 31 and August 5 respectively.

Carina exited the country's area of responsibility but a new low-pressure area formed off Southern Mindanao, continuing to enhance the southwest monsoon and expected to bring heavy rainfall in parts of Luzon.