DepEd Needs P7.7B for Schools Damaged by Monsoon, Cyclones

Damage from floods caused by the southwest monsoon, or “habagat,” and recent tropical cyclones has affected over 11,000 classrooms nationwide. The Department of Education (DepEd) estimates that approximately P7.783 billion is needed for rehabilitation efforts. This amount includes P65.036 million allocated for immediate cleanup and clearing operations in the affected schools. The DepEd is working to assess the full extent of the damage and expedite the restoration process, but securing adequate funding remains a significant challenge due to the scale of the destruction. Philippines is situated in a typhoon-prone region, experiencing frequent heavy rains from the monsoon and tropical storms annually. These natural disasters exacerbate damage to educational facilities, particularly in areas with vulnerable infrastructure. The current damage not only directly impacts the learning environment for children but also poses a risk of long-term loss of educational opportunities. The DepEd plans to finalize its rehabilitation plan and strengthen coordination with relevant agencies and local government units to secure the necessary budget. However, raising the substantial sum of P7.7 billion will be difficult, potentially requiring support from the international community and the private sector. Source: Inquirer NewsInfo