While the agency also braces for the effects of the incoming tropical cyclone.
In his directive, Education Secretary Sonny Angara has ordered the immediate rehabilitation of schools damaged by Typhoon Tino and the continued delivery of learning to students in the affected areas.
“This is about rebuilding hope and stability for our learners. Our priority is safety, and the quick restoration of learning spaces. DepEd will continue working with local governments, partners, and communities so that no child is left behind in the aftermath of any disaster,” said Angara.
According to the Situation Report of the Department of Education (DepEd) as of 12 noon on November 7, 3,260 classrooms sustained damages.
Meanwhile, Tino caused the cancelation of classes in 3,478 pampublikong schools across 22 school divisions on Friday alone, which affected over 1.9 million learners and 80,000 teachers and personnel.
The Quick Response Fund (QRF) has also been utilized for the reconstruction of classrooms, with DepEd tapping the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and local government units for the joint validation.
Angara also noted that the agency has since activated its disaster response protocols, with inspections of engineers in each division to conduct inspection and assessment of damaged facilities, as well as learning recovery efforts to be undertaken once the situation has normalized.
EduKahon kits and other alternative modalities are also being implemented to ensure learning continuity, with the National Educators Academy of the Philippines (NEAP) ordered to remind regional and division offices on the use of Dynamic Learning Program Learning Activity Sheets (DLP-LAS) during emergencies.
Psychosocial support programs for students at teachers have also been activated to help them in their mental and emotional health.
Meanwhile, DepEd will set up upgraded Temporary Learning Spaces (TLS) near schools while the rehabilitations are underway.
According to thr Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service (DRRMS) of the department, PHP30.63 million is needed for the clean-up and clearing operations of 407 schools and PHP1.86 billion for minor classroom repairs, which are being verified.