The Department of Education (DepEd) reported that 3,605 schools across several regions — including areas outside Cebu — sustained structural damage following the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck the province on September 30. The total estimated cost of the damage has reached ₱1.67 billion.
The powerful tremor shook much of the Visayas and parts of Luzon, causing significant damage to school buildings and other public infrastructure. The disaster also displaced numerous students and severely disrupted classroom operations in affected areas.
Despite the extent of the damage, DepEd assured that rehabilitation efforts are ongoing. Engineering teams are currently assessing the structural integrity of affected facilities, while reconstruction and repair proposals are being prepared in coordination with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and other government agencies.
DepEd emphasized that its priority is to ensure the safety of learners and personnel before allowing the resumption of face-to-face classes in damaged schools.