Iloilo: The Department of Education (DepEd) announced on Monday that 2,714 public schools in Western Visayas have shifted to an alternative delivery mode (ADM) in anticipation of the impacts of Typhoon Tino. This shift affects 884,415 learners across 99 local government units in the region, as in-person classes are suspended to ensure safety.

According to Philippines News Agency, DepEd information officer Hernani Escullar Jr. stated that their schools division offices (SDOs) are in close coordination with their respective local government units to facilitate the transition to ADM and implement timely response measures. “Schools are advised to prepare for potential class disruptions,” Escullar mentioned in an interview.

All disaster risk reduction and management coordinators have been activated for necessary preparations, ensuring that safety protocols are adhered to. “DepEd Region 6, through the leadership of OIC Regional Director Cristito Eco, activated all our SDOs and all school DRRM focal persons to prioritize, at all times, the safety and well-being of personnel and learners, ensure learning continuity, and safeguard school properties,” Escullar added. Eco emphasized the potential adverse effects of the approaching storm on learners, teaching and non-teaching personnel, and school infrastructure.

Escullar also noted that schools could serve as evacuation centers, provided there is proper coordination between the schools and division offices. As of 11 a.m., Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 has been issued for Guimaras, the eastern portion of Capiz, and the northern and eastern portions of Iloilo, while Signal No. 1 was raised over the rest of Iloilo, the rest of Capiz, Aklan, and Antique, including the Caluya Islands.