The Department of Education (DepEd) has directed public schools nationwide to strengthen learning continuity measures while integrating mental health and emergency preparedness support for both learners and teachers.
Under updated guidelines, public schools are required to regularly revise their Learning and Service Continuity Plans before the start of each school year and every academic term. The move aims to ensure that education delivery remains stable during disruptions such as disasters, health emergencies, or other crises.
Schools are also instructed to conduct capability mapping of both learners and teaching personnel, establish emergency call trees, and orient parents and guardians on protocols for learning continuity.
DepEd said these measures are intended to support sustained learning while reducing pressure on teachers and students during emergencies.
“Public schools, meanwhile, are directed to update their Learning and Service Continuity Plans annually before the school year and every term,” the policy stated.
For teachers, the department emphasized capacity-building programs focused on trauma-informed teaching, psychological first aid, and flexible learning delivery methods suited for various emergency levels.
Regional Offices and Schools Division Offices have likewise been tasked to provide additional support systems for educators, particularly those assigned in high-risk or resource-limited areas.
This includes access to mental health services, emergency assistance, and institutional support mechanisms to help teachers cope with the demands of crisis situations.
DepEd said the strengthened framework is designed to build resilience within the education system while ensuring that both teaching and learning can continue even during unforeseen disruptions.
Photo courtesy of Philippine Star
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