Nation

DEPED URGED TO EQUIP SCHOOLS FOR ALTERNATIVE LEARNING AMID CLASS SUSPENSIONS DURING CALAMITIES

/ 14 July 2025

SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian on Sunday urged the Department of Education (DepEd) to ensure that schools are fully equipped to implement alternative learning modalities whenever in-person classes are suspended due to typhoons or other natural disasters.

Gatchalian made the call following DepEd’s recent directive to shift to alternative delivery modes of learning whenever Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 or higher is raised.

The senator underscored the need for long-term investments in digital infrastructure and teacher training to guarantee learning continuity despite such disruptions.

“The Department of Education must make sure that our schools are ready to utilize alternative learning modalities whenever face-to-face classes are suspended because of typhoons or other calamities,” Gatchalian said.

“I urge the department to provide our schools and teachers with the necessary tools. This is why I will continue to advocate for the digital transformation of the basic education sector,” he added.

As chair of the Senate Committee on Basic Education, Gatchalian stressed the importance of strengthening the education system’s resilience through expanded use of technology.

“Kung mapapalawak natin ang paggamit ng teknolohiya sa edukasyon, mas matitiyak natin ang tuloy-tuloy na pagkatuto sa gitna ng anumang sakuna,” he said.

Gatchalian has consistently supported policies promoting digital learning, including the provision of learning gadgets, reliable internet access, and the development of digital teaching materials. He also emphasized the need for ongoing teacher training to effectively use technology in both regular and emergency teaching scenarios.

DepEd’s policy on alternative learning during Signal No. 2 events aims to minimize education disruptions in a country frequently exposed to extreme weather. However, challenges remain, particularly in under-resourced schools with limited access to digital tools and stable connectivity.

Gatchalian reiterated that safeguarding learning continuity must be a national priority, especially as climate change increases the frequency and intensity of weather-related class suspensions.