Philippines' Education Secretary Angara Initiates Disaster Response for Earthquake-Affected Schools in Mindanao
Angara directs rapid disaster response for quake-hit Mindanao schools
Image: Inquirer
Education Secretary Sonny Angara has launched a disaster response for 267 schools impacted by a 7.8 magnitude earthquake in Mindanao, Philippines. The initiative includes deploying emergency classrooms, learning materials, and funding for repairs, while prioritizing the safety of students and teachers.
- 01The earthquake struck Maasim, Sarangani on June 8, 2026, damaging 1,391 classrooms across 267 schools in 14 provinces.
- 02An initial budget of P235.1 million has been allocated for 130 Learning Continuity Spaces equipped with emergency power and Wi-Fi.
- 03DepEd has suspended classes in 8,208 schools, with 818 schools resuming in-person classes as of June 9.
- 04A total of P258.98 million has been secured for printing and delivering learning packets to affected students.
- 05DepEd's Quick Response Fund of P3 billion will be utilized for the reconstruction of damaged school facilities.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
In response to the devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Mindanao on June 8, 2026, Education Secretary Sonny Angara has activated a comprehensive disaster response for 267 schools. The earthquake, which occurred during school opening ceremonies, resulted in significant structural damage to 1,391 classrooms across 15 divisions in 14 provinces, with Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato being the most affected. To ensure the safety of students and teachers, the Department of Education (DepEd) has suspended classes in 8,208 schools while allocating P235.1 million for emergency Learning Continuity Spaces equipped with power and Wi-Fi. Additionally, P258.98 million is earmarked for the rapid delivery of learning packets to disrupted students. Angara has also initiated clean-up operations with P7.7 million and minor repairs with P43.9 million. The DepEd will utilize its P3 billion Quick Response Fund for the reconstruction of damaged facilities, emphasizing that the return to in-person classes will depend on thorough inspections by structural experts.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The disaster response will significantly aid the educational infrastructure in Mindanao, ensuring that students can continue their education despite the earthquake's impact.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
How effective do you think the government's response will be for the affected schools?
Connecting to poll...
More about Department of Education
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.