802 schools shift to alternative delivery mode amid Kanlaon eruption

INQUIRER FILES

ILOILO CITY — The Department of Education in Western Visayas (DepEd VI) reported on Wednesday that 802 public schools in the region have adopted the alternative delivery mode after the Dec. 9 eruption of Mt. Kanlaon in Negros.

“The safety and well-being of our learners are now our topmost priority,” said DepEd VI information officer Hernani Escullar Jr. during an interview.

“This will ensure that despite the calamity, we will provide necessary assistance to our learners and personnel during this time.”

DepEd data showed 289 schools from Antique, 53 from Guimaras, 98 from Iloilo, and 362 in Negros Occidental shifted to the ADM as of Dec. 11.

Escullar said the affected school’s division offices (SDOs) are also in constant coordination with local government units while the DepEd regional office updates their central office on the situation.

“The SDOs coordinate with their respective health authorities to ensure compliance with the latest health guidelines. SDOs will provide Psychological First Aid (PFA) to affected learners and personnel to address any mental health issues,” he added.

Kanlaon remains under Alert Level 3 following its eruption on Monday afternoon. (PNA)