DepEd suspends classes after quake

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Education in Central Visayas yesterday suspended the classes for elementary and secondary levels in all public schools following a strong earthquake Monday to give time for safety engineers to check the structural integrity of the school buildings.

DepEd-7 assistant director Carmelita Dulangon said they have decided to suspend classes while inspections are being conducted to ensure the safety of the students.

“We want to make sure that everything is okay. The buildings should be inspected to find out if it is safe or not. If the findings are safe and sound to occupy, then classes resume,” Dulangon said.

Aside from the public schools there were also private schools that suspend classes yesterday, although some universities resumed their normal classes. Private schools were given the discretion whether or not to suspend classes.

Dulangon explained they have required a certification from the principals duly signed by proper authority such as an engineer to ensure that the school buildings were not damaged by the quake and are safe for occupancy.

Dulangon said they have already instructed all 19 schools divisions in Central Visayas to immediately report any damage of school buildings so that appropriate steps could be taken.

Teachers are likewise directed to inspect their classroom for any defects, cracks, because they know better and can identify any changes in the classroom, Dulangon said.

A 6.9 magnitude quake jolted Cebu and Negros Islands last Monday damaging government infrastructures and leaving several people dead. – (FREEMAN)