DepEd assures swift aid to schools, teachers hit by typhoons

The Department of Education (DepEd) assured on Thursday that immediate support will be provided to its personnel and schools affected by recent typhoons and southwest monsoon, or habagat.

“Hindi po natin pababayaan ang ating mga paaralan, guro, at estudyante sa gitna ng kalamidad. Gagawin natin ang lahat para sila’y mabilis na makabangon at makapagpatuloy sa pagbibigay ng edukasyon,” Education Secretary Sonny Angara said during the recent National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council meeting.

DepEd’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service has initiated release of response funds to support urgent cleaning and clearing operations in the affected schools.

DepEd has instructed schools to activate contingency plans, safeguard learning materials and equipment, and coordinate with local disaster councils.

The agency is also collaborating with the Department of Public Works and Highways for the utilization of quick response funds in affected schools, in line with government efforts to streamline post-disaster infrastructure response.

DepEd will also provide additional assistance, through the National Indemnity Insurance Program, which offers comprehensive insurance protection to public school buildings against fire, lightning, and natural calamities. This insurance coverage was secured through DepEd’s collaboration with the Government Service Insurance System and the Bureau of the Treasury.

As of 6 PM, 23 July, DepEd has recorded 1,876 classrooms with minor damage, 562 with major damage, 531 that are totally damaged, and 232 damaged hygiene facilities.

Meanwhile, teachers and staff in calamity-declared areas may avail of DepEd’s provident fund loan, while the agency's human resource units are ready to assist in processing GSIS calamity loans and applications for a 30-day calamity leave.

In cases of disaster-related injuries or fatalities, DepEd personnel can file claims under the GSIS-issued Group Personal Accident Insurance policy. This covers accidental death or dismemberment up to P100,000, and medical reimbursements up to P30,000 for accident-related treatment.