In response to the ongoing disturbances caused by Mt. Kanlaon, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has teamed up with the faculty of La Castellana Elementary School to provide educational support to children in evacuation centers in Negros Occidental. On December 6, 2024, these young learners began participating in temporary learning sessions, an initiative designed to replace their regular classroom activities disrupted by the volcanic unrest.
Irene Dumlao, the DSWD spokesperson, highlighted that the collaboration between DSWD Field Office 6-Western Visayas and La Castellana’s educators started distributing learning modules to the children last Monday. Dumlao emphasized the DSWD’s commitment to addressing the needs of those affected by disasters, extending beyond basic provisions like food and non-food items.
Since the eruption of Mt. Kanlaon on December 9, local government units have been forced to suspend classes and adapt to alternative learning methods. The temporary sessions set up in the evacuation centers include face-to-face classes on Mondays and modular learning from Tuesday to Friday.
In addition to educational support, a school-based feeding program has been implemented, providing milk to the students to ensure their health is maintained during this challenging period. Dumlao stressed the importance of these initiatives in not only maintaining academic progress but also supporting the emotional well-being of the children.
The DSWD has provided PHP70 million in humanitarian aid to the families impacted by the volcanic unrest, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to crisis management and support.