The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), together with the faculty of La Castellana Elementary School, assisted young learners affected by the continuing unrest of Mt. Kanlaon through temporary learning sessions inside evacuation centers.

Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao of the Disaster Response Management Group (DRMG) said personnel of the DSWD Field Office (FO) 6 – Western Visayas helped the faculty members of the said elementary school in distributing learning modules to learners on Monday (January 6).

“We at the DSWD always strive in addressing the needs of our disaster-affected kababayan — beyond our standard provision of food packs and non-food items. This initiative is among the ground manifestations of this commitment,” Asst. Secretary Irene Dumlao said.

Since the eruption of Mt. Kanlaon last December 9, various class suspension notices and shifts in the mode of learning were issued by affected local government units (LGUs).

The temporary learning sessions were established as an alternative to regular school activities. Face-to-face classes are scheduled for the pupils every Monday, while modular sessions are set Tuesday to Friday.

“In addition to the learning modules, a school-based feeding program was held, where we distributed milk to the pupils. This effort is crucial to support their health, which must not be compromised, particularly in this challenging time,” the DSWD official pointed out.

These initiatives are among the convergence efforts between the DSWD and the academic institution aimed at keeping children engaged in their studies amid the crisis.

“We see these efforts as vital not only for bridging gaps on their academic progress but also for their emotional well-being,” Asst. Secretary Dumlao added.

As of press time, a total of Php70 million worth of humanitarian assistance has been extended by the DSWD to the families affected by the Mt. Kanlaon volcanic unrest. (LSJ)