Joseph John Perez, DepEd disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) coordinator for Sorsogon, said Schools Division Superintendent William Gando has already instructed teachers of kindergarten to Grade 12 schools as well as Alternative Learning Systems to align their actions with the Sorsogon Provincial DRRM contingency plans.

Gando’s directive was in response to the series of notices issued by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) of increased seismic activity at Bulusan volcano that began last December 29.

Perez explained that in case of a volcanic eruption, they will implement the guidelines provided in DepEd Order 037-2022.

The order outlines the rules for the cancellation or suspension of classes and work in schools in case of natural disasters, power outages, and other calamities.

Section 6 of the order specifies the adjustments that will be made to the learning delivery in case of class suspension or cancellation.

Perez admitted that the school division’s contingency plan was focused on the hazards of typhoons due to their frequency of occurrence.

Just the same, Perez encouraged schools affected by the past unrest of Bulusan to make a contingency plan for volcanic eruptions.

“We are also in the process of conducting training of trainors on contingency planning. All drills will be anchored from the contingency plan. Without this, no drills shall be conducted,” Perez said.

As of this writing, Bulusan is on Alert Level 1. This means that the volcano is currently experiencing low-level unrest, with an increased possibility of steam-driven or phreatic eruptions.

The Sorsogon PDRRM Office and PDRRM council members provided face masks and prepositioned equipment and supplies in case of need.

Based on DepEd Sorsogon's records, 21 schools are situated within the 5-6 kilometer Danger Zone of Bulusan Volcano, with four schools located within the 4-km Permanent Danger Zone, including San Roque Elementary School and San Roque National High School in Bulusan, Inlagadian Elementary School in District I of Casiguran, and Cogon Elementary School in Irosin District II.

These 21 schools are located in Barcelona North (one school), Barcelona South (two schools), Bulusan (three schools), Casiguran District I (two schools), Irosin District I (three schools), Irosin District II (seven schools), and Juban District II (three schools).

During the June 2022 eruptions, 103 schools and 38,312 learners were affected. The affected schools suspended classes and were used as evacuation centers. Those affected by ashfall were also assisted.

Perez also said that DepEd was closely monitoring the condition of Bulusan and will inform entities concerned immediately of any new developments.

The radio program Ugnayan sa PIA Sorsogon is aired every Monday from 11 a.m. to 12 noon on DWDR DPR 105.5 FM and livestreamed via PIA Sorsogon Facebook page. (PIA 5/Sorsogon)