ILOILO – Over 731,000 learners across 2,370 public schools in Western Visayas shifted to alternative learning modes as face-to-face classes were suspended on Friday, July 18, due to inclement weather and flooding caused by Tropical Storm “Crising”.
The Department of Education (DepEd) Region 6 announced the region-wide transition to Alternative Delivery Mode (ADM) and blended learning in line with disaster preparedness measures outlined in DepEd Order No. 27, series of 2022, and DepEd Order No. 009, series of 2024.
“DepEd Order 009, Series of 2024, applies when in-person classes are suspended due to bad weather, especially in areas at risk of flooding,” said Hernani Escullar Jr., information officer of DepEd-6.
He added: “Schools must use Blended Learning Delivery Modalities (BLDM) during class cancellations. Teachers should provide home learning activities that fit students’ needs and local situations.”
Here is the provincial breakdown of the affected public schools and learners as of 9 a.m., July 18:
* Iloilo – 981 schools, 323,229 learners
* Aklan – 379 schools, 123,070 learners
* Antique – 505 schools, 122,873 learners
* Capiz – 352 schools, 60,741 learners
* Iloilo City – 66 schools, 75,010 learners
* Guimaras – 87 schools, 27,059 learners
The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in Western Visayas reported that a Red Rainfall Warning was in effect in Antique, where serious flooding and landslides were expected.
An Orange Rainfall Warning was also issued for Capiz, Guimaras, Aklan, and Iloilo, indicating possible flooding in low-lying areas and landslides in mountainous terrain.
Meanwhile, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said “Crising” remained a tropical storm as it moves northwestward toward mainland Cagayan and the Babuyan Islands. As of early Friday, it was located about 250 km east of Tuguegarao City, with maximum sustained winds of 65 km/h and gusts reaching 80 km/h.
Authorities reminded the public to stay alert and follow disaster preparedness protocols, including the preparation of emergency kits, monitoring weather advisories, and evacuating from high-risk areas when necessary./PN
