SAFETY, LEARNING CONTINUITY, AND SAFEKEEPING OF SCHOOL PROPERTIES DURING DISASTERS AND EMERGENCIES

In light of the expected inclement weather and other disasters or emergencies that may disrupt classes in several regions, all concerned are hereby directed to consistently implement planned interventions and regular programs in a manner that ensures learning continuity, while giving utmost priority to the safety and wellbeing of learners and school personnel. 2. Accordingly, regional offices (ROs), schools division offices (SDOs), and schools shall:

Accordingly, regional offices (ROs), schools division offices (SDOs), and schools shall:

a. Prioritize the safety and well-being of personnel and learners, in coordination with local authorities and in line with established protocols;

b. Ensure learning continuity by implementing structured and sustainable interventions, including the use of Alternative Delivery Modes (ADMs), where feasible, when face-to-face classes are suspended, as provided under DepEd Order No. 022, s. 2024 (Revised Guidelines on Class and Work Suspension in Schools During Disasters and Emergencies).

c. Safekeep school properties, including devices and equipment, as well as teaching materials and supplies, to ensure readiness when classes resume.

d. Submit timely, accurate, and consolidated reports to the next immediate governance level (e.g., schools to SDOs, SDOs to ROs, and ROs to the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service), copy furnished to the Office of the Assistant Secretary for School Operations, to ensure that best practices are documented and gaps are addressed without delay.

The report shall contain the following information:

i. ADMs implemented (e.g., modular, online, blended);

ii. Challenges encountered by the learners, teachers, personnel, and the school in the adoption of ADMs deemed applicable in their locality; and

iii. Other information deemed necessary for inclusion in the report.

3. SDOs shall continuously monitor the implementation of programs and interventions in schools, as reflected in the Learning and Service Continuity Plans and School Improvement Plans prepared by the schools under their supervision.

4. SDOs shall establish a structured feedback system to assess the impact of class suspensions on students’ learning progress and to inform necessary adjustments in learning delivery strategies.

5. Teachers and school-based personnel who render service in the school during work suspensions will be entitled to equivalent overtime pay, vacation service credits, or overtime pay, subject to existing guidelines.