SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian is urging the Department of Education (DepEd) to coordinate closely with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and local government units (LGUs) to expedite the assessment and repair of classrooms damaged by recent typhoons and heavy monsoon rains.

Gatchalian emphasized that prolonged delays in classroom repairs pose serious safety risks to both students and teachers.

“I am urging DepEd to work with DPWH and LGUs to fast-track the assessment and repair of damaged classrooms,” he said. “If classrooms remain in disrepair, the safety of our learners and educators continues to be at risk.”

A long-time advocate for education reform and infrastructure development, Gatchalian stressed the need to go beyond temporary fixes by investing in climate-resilient school infrastructure.

“We must prioritize making our classrooms and school buildings climate-resilient — not just to protect lives, but to break the costly cycle of repair and reconstruction every time disaster strikes,” he said.

“Investing in resilient infrastructure now will save resources, safeguard learning, and ensure continuity in education,” the senator added.

Gatchalian’s appeal comes as various regions continue to deal with the aftermath of Severe Tropical Storm Crising and ongoing southwest monsoon rains, which have caused widespread flooding and damage to infrastructure, including hundreds of schools.

He urged concerned agencies to act swiftly to ensure classrooms are repaired in time for the return of millions of students in early August.

“Education must not be disrupted further. Let’s make sure every child has a safe classroom to return to,” Gatchalian said.