'Safety First' In Mindanao Over Class Resumption As Quake Affects 3.2m Learners

MANILA, June 9 (Bernama-PNA) -- Safety of learners will be prioritised over the resumption of classes in earthquake-hit schools in Mindanao, the Department of Education (DepEd) assured on Monday, Philippine News Agency (PNA) reported.

More than 3.2 million learners, 128,000 teachers and personnel are initially affected in Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Davao, Soccsksargen and Caraga following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake, and succeeding aftershocks in parts of Mindanao.

The DepEd stressed that the topmost priority during disasters is the safety of lives, under the Guidelines on Learning Continuity in Emergencies.

“We understand the concern of our parents, teachers, and learners. When everyone is already safe, we can resume our learning. Safety must come first,” Education Secretary Sonny Angara said in a statement.

Following the earthquake, the DepEd immediately activated its emergency response mechanisms, especially in areas that suffered from strong ground shaking and aftershocks.

The agency deployed engineers to support regional field offices in damage assessment and rapid safety inspections for the structural integrity of school buildings.

Angara vowed to provide immediate assistance to affected schools.

Minor repairs costing up to PHP50,000 may be charged against the school’s Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses, allowing immediate action on urgent needs.

For major repairs and rehabilitation, the agency has separate funding and emergency resources.

As of Monday, at least 6,224 schools were affected across five regions in Mindanao.

Angara also urged all schools to review and implement earthquake preparedness measures to boost the readiness of learners and teachers for future emergencies.

These include evacuation procedures and regular earthquake drills in all schools nationwide.

-- BERNAMA-PNA