More than 1,100 classrooms in the region sustained heavy damage following the series of earthquakes that rocked the island since October, the regional education department reported.
A total of 702 classrooms could no longer be used as those were “totally damaged” while 417 classrooms sustained “major damages” that pose great risks to students and school personnel.
The Department of Education (DepEd) needs help from other agencies for the possible rehabilitation of the 417 damaged classrooms.
The earthquake swarm has affected 344 schools in the region.
Most of the damaged classrooms are in Davao del Sur, the most affected province in the region.
There were 736 classrooms damaged in Davao del Sur, including 234 in Digos City, the provincial capital. A total of 425 classrooms could no longer be used. Close to 140 schools were affected.
Davao del Norte sustained 137 damaged classrooms, including 127 in Panabo City and four in the provincial capital of Tagum City. At least 112 totally damaged classrooms in 127 affected schools are now condemned.
In Davao Occidental, 85 classrooms in 15 affected schools are damaged beyond repair.
There were 76 classrooms in six affected schools in Compostela Valley that could no longer be used.
Davao Oriental reported 39 heavily damaged classrooms in 15 schools. Four classrooms are no longer usable.
While the report only stated that classrooms in Davao City sustained minor damage, an education official said on Monday that a school building in Matina area has already been condemned.
DepEd regional director Evelyn Fetalvero said temporary classrooms have been established to serve students and teachers for the meantime.
“It is a really different ambiance when there is a standard classroom, but at least, our students and teachers will be kept in a space where they can continue with their regular classes,” Fetalvero added.
She said they are still monitoring others classrooms to ensure the safety of the students and teachers.
Classes in Bansalan and Magsaysay, the two most affected towns in Davao del Sur, is expected to resume today. Classes in Digos resumed last Monday.
