The Department of Education – Schools Division of Surigao del Norte, through its School Governance and Operations Division (SGOD) – Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Section, continues to strengthen its post-earthquake recovery efforts through the conduct of field inspections and validation of school buildings under the Disaster Preparedness and Response Program (DPRP) Fund.

The initiative focuses on verifying the Program of Works (POW), which covers both minor and major repairs of school facilities damaged by last year’s earthquake. The activity aims to ensure that all proposed interventions are responsive to the actual structural conditions of affected buildings and aligned with safety standards to restore functionality and protect learners and personnel.

Leading the inspection team is Division DRRM Coordinator Maricarl Aceron Malto, together with DepEd Project Engineer Vic Albert Ladia, and Administrative Support II (DRRM) Jove Gordonas Orillo Jr.. The team conducted on-site validation to assess the actual condition of school infrastructures and verify the appropriateness of the proposed repair works.

Initial validation activities were carried out in the Malimono District, covering Masgad National High School and Bunyasan National High School, both categorized under minor repairs. This was followed by inspections in Gigaquit National School of Home Industries in the Gigaquit District and Mabini Elementary School in the Mainit District, likewise identified for minor repair interventions.

Through direct field validation, the team ensured that repair proposals are evidence-based and reflective of the priority needs of each school. This process plays a crucial role in guaranteeing that government resources are utilized efficiently and that rehabilitation efforts are implemented in accordance with actual damage assessments.

The ongoing activity underscores the Schools Division’s commitment to resilient and safe learning environments, ensuring that all rehabilitation efforts under the DPRP Fund contribute to the long-term safety, preparedness, and continuity of education in earthquake-affected communities.

• March 5-6, 2026