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, successfully conducted a four-day field validation activity to assess reported damages to school facilities caused by Tropical Cyclone Basyang and the prevailing shear line.

Spearheaded by Division DRRM Coordinator Maricarl Aceron Malto, in close coordination with DepED Project Engineer Vic Albert Ladia, the initiative aimed to ensure accurate damage assessment and the timely completion and submission of required reports to facilitate immediate assistance and appropriate response interventions.

The activity commenced with validation visits to key affected schools in the Malimono, Placer, and Tubod Districts, including Cantapoy Elementary School, Placer Central Elementary School, and Timamana Elementary School. These initial inspections set the groundwork for a systematic verification process to ensure that reported damages were properly documented and aligned with on-site conditions.

On the second day, validation efforts expanded to additional schools in the Tagana-an and Mainit Districts, covering Himama-ug National High School, Salvacion Elementary School, San Francisco Elementary School, and Silop Elementary School. The team continued to gather critical data necessary for accurate reporting and immediate planning of interventions.

Sustaining its momentum on the third day, the validation team proceeded to four schools within the Placer District—Lakandula National High School, Lakandula Elementary School, Sani-sani Elementary School, and Sta. Cruz Elementary School—further strengthening the Division’s data validation efforts and ensuring comprehensive coverage of affected areas.

The fourth and final day focused on schools in the Anao-aon District, where Jubgan Integrated School and Balite National High School were assessed. This concluded the series of field validations, reinforcing the Division’s commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of learners and personnel.

Through this initiative, the Schools Division of Surigao del Norte emphasized the importance of accurate, evidence-based reporting in disaster response operations. The validated data will serve as a critical basis for decision-making, resource allocation, and the implementation of timely rehabilitation and recovery efforts, ensuring that affected schools receive the necessary support in the aftermath of the disaster.

• February 23-26, 2026