The Department of Education in Bicol (DepEd-5) reported on Thursday that Severe Tropical Storm Opong (international name Bualoi) has caused PHP4.7 billion in damage to school buildings, classrooms, and learning materials in Masbate province.

DepEd Bicol Regional Director Gilbert Sadsad said the estimated damage in Masbate City alone exceeds PHP842 million, while the total damage across the province has reached around PHP3.9 billion.

“In Masbate City, 197 classrooms are completely damaged, 220 have major damage, and 269 have minor damage. Across Masbate province, there are 591 totally damaged, 1,050 classrooms with major damage, and 1,155 partially damaged. Additionally, they lost 51,378 learning materials and 1,573 computers,” Sadsad said in a news release.

He added initial reports indicate that more than 60,000 learners, 3,105 teachers, and 570 non-teaching staff have been affected by Opong.

To ensure the continuity of classes for the affected students, he said DepEd has developed a learning plan.

“We will have face-to-face classes next week for grades 1 to 3 because they are our priority. Grades 4, 5, 6, and high school will follow a blended learning model, with students attending two days in the classroom and three days of remote learning, alternating,” Sadsad said.

On Wednesday, DepEd distributed EduKahon Kits to students in the province.

A total of 175 kits were handed out to learners from the Schools Division Office (SDO) of Masbate province and Masbate City.

The distribution was conducted at three schools: Jose Zurbito Sr. Elementary School received 50 kits, Masbate National Comprehensive High School was allocated another 50 kits, and Agatona Aban Abas Elementary School got 75 kits.

The EduKahon Kits are designed to replace the school materials lost or damaged during the typhoon and support ongoing education for affected students.

Face-to-face classes in the province will resume next week. (PNA)