Public and private schools in the Municipality of Medellin, Cebu, are set to welcome students back to physical classrooms starting Monday, January 5, 2026. This follows the official lifting of the class suspension that was imposed after a powerful 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck Northern Cebu last September 30.
Safety First: The Basis for Resuming Classes
Mayor Edwin Salimbangon issued Executive Order No. 1, Series of 2026 on January 3, formally ending the suspension. The decision came after a thorough structural assessment of school buildings conducted by engineers from the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
The order emphasizes that restoring learning continuity is essential, but not at the expense of safety. "There is a need to restore learning continuity while ensuring that safety remains the paramount consideration," a portion of the directive states.
Strict Conditions for Reopening
The executive order outlines clear and strict guidelines for the return to in-person learning. Crucially, only school facilities and classrooms deemed safe for occupancy shall be reopened. Any structures found to be unsafe will remain closed until necessary repairs and corrective measures are fully completed.
For private schools, the local government recognized inspections and recommendations carried out by their own duly authorized engineers or relevant regulatory authorities.
Flexibility and Continued Vigilance
School administrations have been granted flexibility to manage the transition. They are authorized to determine appropriate class schedules and learning modalities based on the availability of safe spaces. This may include:
- Adjusted class schedules or shifting systems.
- Implementation of blended learning approaches.
- Other alternative learning arrangements to ensure safety.
Furthermore, school heads are directed to strictly enforce safety and preparedness protocols. This includes the continuous monitoring of school buildings, active dissemination of earthquake preparedness guidelines to students and staff, and ensuring that evacuation and emergency response plans are ready for implementation.
Local government units, including the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) and the Municipal Engineering Office, are tasked with coordinating closely with schools, conducting periodic monitoring, and providing technical support.
Ongoing Infrastructure Impact
While schools prepare to reopen, the community continues to deal with the earthquake's aftermath on infrastructure. As recently as Wednesday, October 1, 2025, reports indicated that a bridge in Barangay Poblacion, Medellin sustained significant damage. The structure was left with only one lane passable, highlighting the persistent effects of the tremor that disrupted life in Northern Cebu months ago.
The resumption of classes marks a significant step toward normalcy for Medellin, balancing the critical need for education with unwavering commitments to student and personnel welfare.
