The Department of Education (DepEd) has launched a large-scale recovery initiative to restore learning continuity following the devastation caused by Typhoon Tino, which damaged over 3,200 classrooms across the country — even as the agency braces for the possible impact of Typhoon Uwan.
In a statement, Education Secretary Sonny Angara said the department has activated disaster response protocols and deployed engineers to affected regions to assess structural damage and fast-track repairs.
“This is about rebuilding hope and stability for our learners. Our priority is safety and the quick restoration of learning spaces,” Angara said.
“DepEd will continue working with local governments, partners, and communities so that no child is left behind in the aftermath of any disaster.”
Based on DepEd’s Situation Report as of November 7, a total of 3,260 classrooms were damaged, while 3,478 public schools in 22 divisions suspended classes, affecting 1.9 million students and 80,000 teachers and staff.
The agency is utilizing its Quick Response Fund (QRF) to speed up reconstruction in coordination with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and local government units (LGUs) for joint validation of damaged school facilities.
To support affected learners and teachers, DepEd has begun psychosocial support programs and is rolling out EduKahon kits and Dynamic Learning Program Learning Activity Sheets (DLP-LAS) for home-based learning during emergencies.
DepEd also revived DepEd TV through a new partnership with ABS-CBN’s Knowledge Channel and Solar Pictures, aiming to strengthen its television-based education efforts as part of its learning recovery campaign.
With Typhoon Uwan expected to bring intense rains and strong winds in the coming days, Angara said the department has begun implementing preemptive learning continuity measures and is coordinating with regional offices for early preparations.
The DepEd will also establish Temporary Learning Spaces (TLS) near affected campuses to accommodate displaced learners during ongoing rehabilitation.
According to the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service (DRRMS), DepEd needs ₱30.63 million for cleanup and clearing operations across 407 affected schools, and ₱1.86 billion for minor classroom repairs, pending further validation.