Manila: Zamboanga Peninsula: Safety of learners will be prioritized over the resumption of classes in earthquake-hit schools in Mindanao, the Department of Education (DepEd) assured on Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, more than 3.2 million learners, 128,000 teachers and personnel are initially affected in Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Davao, Soccsksargen, and Caraga following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake, and succeeding aftershocks in parts of Mindanao, the agency reported.

The DepEd emphasized that the primary concern during disasters is the safety of lives, as outlined in the Guidelines on Learning Continuity in Emergencies. Education Secretary Sonny Angara stated, "We understand the concern of our parents, teachers, and learners. Kapag ligtas na ang lahat, saka natin ipagpapatuloy ang pag-aaral. Kaligtasan muna ang una (When everyone is already safe, we can resume our learning. Safety must come first)."

In response to the earthquake, the DepEd swiftly activated its emergency response mechanisms, particularly in areas that experienced strong ground shaking and aftershocks. The agency dispatched engineers to assist regional field offices in conducting damage assessments and rapid safety inspections to evaluate the structural integrity of school buildings.

Angara pledged to provide immediate assistance to affected schools. Minor repairs costing up to PHP50,000 may be charged against the school's Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses, enabling prompt action on urgent needs. For major repairs and rehabilitation, the agency has allocated separate funding and emergency resources.

As of Monday, at least 6,224 schools were affected across five regions in Mindanao. Angara also encouraged all schools to review and implement earthquake preparedness measures to enhance the readiness of learners and teachers for future emergencies. These measures include evacuation procedures and regular earthquake drills in all schools nationwide.