Southwest Monsoon Damages Over 3,000 Classrooms Nationwide
The devastating impact of the southwest monsoon has already damaged more than 3,000 classrooms, according to reports from education officials. The Department of Education (DepEd) confirmed that the recent habagat storms caused widespread destruction to school facilities across multiple regions.
DepEd’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service (DRRMS) detailed the extent of the damage: 1,794 classrooms suffered minor damage, 540 incurred major damage, and 531 were completely destroyed. In addition, 208 hygiene facilities were also affected. These figures highlight the severe blow to the country’s educational infrastructure caused by the persistent heavy rains.
Class Suspensions and Evacuation Centers
Due to the continuous downpour, nearly 25,000 schools have suspended face-to-face classes to ensure the safety of students and staff. The disruption has lasted for days, with some schools experiencing up to four consecutive days of class interruptions.
Currently, 131 schools across nine regions—including the Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Western Visayas, Cordillera Administrative Region, Metro Manila, and Negros Island—serve as evacuation centers for displaced families. This dual role of schools as both learning centers and shelters underscores the crisis these communities face.
Ensuring Safety and Continuity Amid Damage
DepEd has urged all field offices and schools in affected areas to activate contingency plans to address potential flooding and landslides. They have also emphasized the importance of securing learning materials, school records, and essential equipment to minimize further losses.
Moreover, the department is coordinating closely with various regional disaster risk reduction and management councils to monitor ongoing developments. Response funds are being mobilized to assist schools in immediate cleanup and recovery operations.
“DepEd-DRRMS remains vigilant in monitoring developments and coordinating efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of learners, teachers, and school communities,” officials noted.
For more news and updates on the southwest monsoon impact, visit Filipinokami.com.
