Typhoons and Extreme Heat Challenge DepEd’s Disaster Management Capabilities

The DepEd Quick Response Fund is designed for post-disaster repairs and rebuilding of school buildings. However, a report from the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2), released on January 28, revealed that the department's funds are insufficient and limited by procedures, affecting proactive disaster preparedness and response.

DepEd Undersecretary Annalyn Sevilla mentioned that the department struggles to access these funds before disasters, hindering its ability to respond effectively. Schools also have limited budgets for cleanup and minor repairs, with only P20,000 for cleanup and P50,000 for small repairs under their operating expenses.

In Bicol, which experienced severe typhoons last year, the Disaster Preparedness and Response Program funds for 2023 and 2024 were used up, covering only 10-15% of the region's needs.

To address these issues, EDCOM 2 suggested building weather-resistant schools, using real-time disaster monitoring data from various agencies, and investing in solar power for off-grid schools.

With climate change expected to worsen weather conditions, the education sector will face ongoing challenges in maintaining stable learning environments. The commission recommended improving the accessibility of the Quick Response Fund as schools deal with more extreme weather events.

In response, DepEd has ordered schools to create detailed "Learning and Service Continuity Plans" for various disruptions. The department also gave school heads more authority to suspend classes based on local conditions and introduced plans for distance learning during disasters. Last year, schools faced major disruptions due to typhoons and extreme heat, forcing widespread class suspensions.

Source:
Chi, C. (2025b, January 28). DepEd’s disaster funds “insufficient,” difficult to access — report. Philstar.com. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2025/01/28/2417506/depeds-disaster-funds-insufficient-difficult-access-report

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