Public schools in the Philippines are experiencing delays in opening due to the aftermath of Typhoon Carina. Many schools not only served as temporary shelters for victims but also suffered significant damage from the storm.
The Department of Education (DepEd) scheduled classes at public schools to begin on July 29, 2024. However, over a thousand schools have postponed their start dates to allow for necessary clean-up and rehabilitation efforts. The education department has emphasized that this postponement is crucial for restoring a safe learning environment.
Also Read: Philippine Stars Unite to Shine a Light on Typhoon Carina Relief
Officials in the National Capital Region (NCR) have declared a state of calamity and postponed classes until August 5, 2024.
In the Ilocos Region, approximately 544 schools will resume operations on July 29, with a deadline of August 5.
Meanwhile, in Mindanao, the SOCCSKARGEN region (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos) will also resume classes on August 5.
He also stated, “The regional directors will also work with the principals to assess readiness for school opening. Hindi naman pipilitin ‘yung mga nasalanta talaga at mahihirapan sa school opening ng Lunes.”
In a message to Inquirer, Angara added, “Most (of these) schools incurred damage in school infrastructures and experienced flooding (and) they will undergo cleanup, especially in Metro Manila.”
Also Read: Marcos Considers New Flood Control Plans After Typhoon Carina
Due to the intensity of Typhoon Carina, several areas were declared in a state of calamity. Despite this, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos instructed the Department of Education to proceed with the scheduled school openings on July 29. He emphasized the need for the department to “do everything” possible to ensure classes resume as planned.
Under last year’s curriculum, schools were set to begin in August. However, with the approval to revert to the previous curriculum, schools opened in July for this academic year. This change allows the Philippines to return to a June opening and a March closing.
In the aftermath of the recent typhoon, citizens are still in recovery mode. The news of Typhoon Dindo has raised concerns among Filipinos. However, PAGASA has reassured the public that it has since weakened and is now classified as a Low-Pressure Area (LPA).
Relief efforts for Typhoon Carina continue, with various private and public organizations actively working to assist affected communities.
Keep Reading: How to File for Typhoon Carina Calamity Loan in the Philippines (SSS, GSIS, Pag-IBIG)
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