The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is actively supporting the education of children displaced by the unrest at Mt. Kanlaon. In a recent statement, DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao highlighted the efforts of the agency’s field office camp coordinators who, despite their busy schedules, are dedicated to assisting young learners with their studies at evacuation centers.
Dumlao, who oversees the Disaster Response Management Group (DRMG) at DSWD, reported that over 1,600 children aged 6 to 12 are currently housed in 23 evacuation centers near Mt. Kanlaon. The eruption on December 9 and the subsequent mandatory evacuations have led some schools to adopt a blended learning approach, combining traditional classroom sessions with modular learning.
In response to the crisis, DSWD is committed to providing comprehensive support to affected families. This includes not only educational assistance but also the provision of food, non-food items, and ensuring the cleanliness and safety of evacuation centers. Dumlao emphasized that the agency’s support extends to specific groups such as the elderly, pregnant, and nursing mothers, and will continue until the situation stabilizes and residents can return to their normal lives.
The efforts of DSWD reflect a broader commitment to maintaining educational continuity and supporting the well-being of evacuees during this challenging time.