The onslaught of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine has resulted in over P2 billion in infrastructure damage to public schools, according to the Department of Education (DepEd) on Saturday, Oct. 26.
The latest data from DepEd shows that 38,333 schools in 191 divisions across 16 regions have been affected by “Kristine.”
Initial reports indicate that 753 schools were exposed to secondary hazards and incidents, such as flooding and landslides.
To date, DepEd reported that 601 schools are being used as temporary shelters or evacuation centers for affected families.
DepEd data also show that 19,473,624 learners are affected, as face-to-face classes in 38,085 schools remain suspended.
Aside from students, DepEd stated that 786,726 teaching and non-teaching personnel have also been impacted by STS Kristine.
Based on its rapid assessment, DepEd reported that 863 classrooms are totally damaged, while 1,026 classrooms are partially damaged.
A total of P2.67 billion (P2.1 billion for reconstruction and P513 million for major repairs) is needed to restore the affected schools, DepEd said.
DepEd has instructed the continued monitoring of the affected regions and divisions.