DepEd to accelerate disaster-resilient classrooms

MANILA, Philippines — Education Secretary Sonny Angara has ordered the speedy construction of disaster-resilient classrooms to ensure uninterrupted learning when schools are converted into evacuation centers during calamities.

Up to 878 learning continuity spaces are under construction, 34 of which are completed, the Department of Education (DepEd) said.

Around 453 classrooms are being constructed and 391 are in the procurement stage, the DepEd added.

The program is expanding the procurement of two buildings, with five classrooms each, at the Romana C. Acharon Elementary School and H.N. Cahilsot Central Elementary School in General Santos City, with completion targeted this month.

A separate P226.4-million budget has been set aside to build an additional 109 ready-to-assemble classrooms across seven regions nationwide.

Of the number, 83 classrooms will be built in the Davao Region.

“According to President Marcos’ order, we must expedite the construction of safe facilities to ensure the continuous learning of our students, especially in areas that are frequently hit by calamities,” Angara said.

Built for rapid deployment, the DepEd said these semi-permanent modular classrooms can be installed within four to eight weeks.