The Cebu Provincial School Board has taken decisive action to address educational disruptions caused by last month's major earthquake, approving a substantial P85-million supplemental budget for emergency school facilities.
Massive Classroom Damage Assessed
The 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck Cebu on September 30, 2025 caused widespread destruction to educational infrastructure across the province. According to Department of Education Cebu Province assessments, the seismic event completely destroyed 570 classrooms, while 1,101 sustained major damage and another 1,723 experienced minor damage.
Governor Pamela Baricuatro chaired the CPSB meeting at Capitol Social Hall on November 15, where board members evaluated the extensive damage particularly concentrated in northern Cebu, the earthquake's epicenter. The assessment revealed an urgent need for 269 Temporary Learning Shelters to accommodate displaced students.
Financial Resources for Education Recovery
Provincial Treasurer Roy Salubre confirmed the province's strong financial position to support education recovery efforts. The CPSB currently has P1.128 billion in available funds, with an anticipated additional collection of P800 million, bringing total available resources to nearly P2 billion.
These funds will enable continuing assistance to DepEd Cebu Province to maintain uninterrupted learning following the disaster. The financial mechanism supporting these efforts derives from Section 235 of Republic Act 7160, which allows provinces to levy an annual one-percent tax on real property assessed value, with proceeds exclusively funding Special Education Fund programs.
Clearing Operations and Class Resumption
Meanwhile, DepEd 7 Director Salustiano Jimenez reported that clearing and cleaning operations have commenced in earthquake-affected schools. "We're prioritizing cleanup efforts, classroom usability assessments, and implementing plans to address earthquake damage," Jimenez told SunStar Cebu on November 13.
Several schools have already been cleared, especially those with less severe damage, allowing teachers and students to utilize available safe classrooms. DepEd 7 is collaborating closely with various agencies and partners involved in school building restoration and construction.
In Santa Fe municipality on Bantayan Island, multiple schools will return to face-to-face classes starting November 17 after building safety assessments. Mayor Ithamar Espinosa announced the resumption following recommendations from the Office of the Building Official.
The following elementary schools have been cleared for reopening:
- Balidbid Elementary School
- Hagdan Elementary School
- Hilantagaan Elementary School
- Kinatarcan Elementary School
- Langub Elementary School
- Marikaban Integrated School - Elementary
- Okoy Elementary School
- Pooc Elementary School
- Santa Fe Central Elementary School
- Talisay Elementary School
At the secondary level, Hilantagaan National High School and Marikaban Integrated School - Secondary will also resume regular classes. However, schools like Kinatarcan National High School and Santa Fe National High School will implement limited face-to-face classes or blended learning modalities while reassessments continue.
Mayor Espinosa appealed for community cooperation, emphasizing "We urge everyone's cooperation as we continue our efforts to ensure that all facilities in our schools are safe." The coordinated response demonstrates Cebu's commitment to educational continuity despite natural disasters.
