Cebu Earthquake: Classes Suspended, Thousands of Students Affected
Classes in multiple Cebu municipalities remain suspended following a devastating earthquake on September 30, 2025. Temporary learning spaces are being set up while officials assess the damage and seek funds for reconstruction.
The earthquake affected at least nine towns and cities, with Bogo City and San Remigio being the hardest hit. Over 7,500 classrooms were damaged, disrupting education for nearly 19,000 students and over 1,000 teachers. Tragically, the earthquake resulted in at least 12 student and 2 teacher fatalities, with several schools reporting collapsed walls and unsafe buildings.
The Department of Education in Central Visayas (DepEd 7) is pooling resources and seeking private sector support to rebuild damaged classrooms. Director Dr. Salustiano Jimenez admitted that current funds are insufficient, and the official reconstruction list will be jointly validated by DepEd and the Department of Public Works and Highways before funds are released. Education Secretary Sonny Angara and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. visited Bogo City, distributing EduKahon kits to affected students and teachers.
The Department of Budget and Management has released P375 million in emergency funds to aid recovery efforts. DepEd 7 is encouraging public-private partnerships to help restore affected school facilities, with rehabilitation scope depending on damage level. Temporary learning spaces are being constructed while officials work to secure additional funds and reconstruct classrooms.
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