The Provincial Government of Davao Occidental has announced the implementation of Learning Continuity Measures just days after allowing the resumption of face-to-face classes, following a series of aftershocks from the magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck on June 8, 2026.
Alternative Learning Modalities in Three Municipalities
Governor Atty. Franklin P. Bautista, through Memorandum Order No. 73, Series of 2026, directed the municipalities of Malita, Santa Maria, and Don Marcelino to adopt Hinay (Ease In) or Alternative Learning Modalities (ALMs). These include online learning, modular learning, take-home learning activities, and other appropriate delivery modes.
According to the memorandum issued on June 27, 2026, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), through the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), will continue monitoring the situation and issue further recommendations as necessary.
Basis for the Measures
The learning continuity measures were based on the recommendation of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), in line with DepEd Order No. 014, Series of 2026.
In contrast, schools in the municipalities of Jose Abad Santos and Sarangani will remain under Hinto (Stop), with classes suspended until further notice. This is to ensure the safety and security of students and personnel, as well as to provide Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Services (MHPSS) and Psychological First Aid (PFA).
Teacher Reporting and Psychological Support
The provincial office stated that school heads may require teachers and school personnel to report to school only when necessary for preparing learning materials, updating earthquake contingency plans, and other school functions, provided these activities adhere to safety protocols.
Schools are also instructed to prioritize conducting Psychological First Aid (PFA) and stress debriefing for teachers and school personnel, followed by students, before resuming classes.
Earlier Resumption and Suspension Orders
Earlier, on June 20, 2026, the provincial government issued Memorandum Order No. 70, Series of 2026, announcing the resumption of classes in Malita, Sta. Maria, and Don Marcelino effective June 22, 2026. Meanwhile, Jose Abad Santos and Sarangani were directed to implement Alternative Learning Modalities (ALMs) to ensure educational continuity while prioritizing safety.
The office noted that the resumption was based on recommendations from the PDRRMO and assessments by the Provincial Engineering Office, which deemed those municipalities safe for face-to-face classes.
Background of the Earthquake
On June 13, 2026, through Memorandum Order No. 67, Series of 2026, the province had extended the suspension of classes and work in public and private schools across Davao Occidental as it recovered from the devastating magnitude 7.8 earthquake.
The earthquake struck Maasim, Sarangani, at 7:37 a.m. on June 8, 2026, and was felt in parts of Mindanao. PHIVOLCS issued a tsunami warning following the quake.
