MANILA – The Department of Education (DepEd) on Wednesday reported an estimated damage of PHP308.5 million in school infrastructure due to the effects of Super Typhoon Carina and the enhanced southwest monsoon.
According to the DepEd’s latest situation report, the amount is equivalent to the funds needed for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of 45 damaged schools.
In particular, infrastructure damage was reported in the Cordillera and Ilocos regions, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon), Mimaropa, Western Visayas, and Eastern Visayas.
Meanwhile, 21 schools are reportedly being used as evacuation centers in Metro Manila and Calabarzon.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara earlier assured the proper assessment and deployment of personnel during the massive flooding in Romblon and Mindoro.
Angara expressed similar preparations for the looming La Niña, citing plans to identify vulnerable areas in the country and conduct a study on the construction of resilient classrooms, alongside the implementation of alternative delivery modes, such as blended learning, modular, and online classes for learners, when needed.
The DepEd is set to launch the start of School Year 2024-2025 on July 29. (PNA)
