THE Department of Education (DepEd) vehemently condemns the alarming rate of communist rebel activities in Masbate, causing undue learning disruption in the province.
In a statement, the education department said these acts of terrorism perpetrated by the New People’s Army (NPA) have caused trauma to learners and school personnel who witnessed the senseless violence.
DepEd remains defiant against these fear-mongering tactics of terrorists as the agency commits to deliver basic education to all, even in disadvantaged areas.
On his part, President Ferdinand Marcos said “We are deeply concerned over the incidents of violence in Masbate which had traumatized the affected civilians who were generally school children and their teachers.This just demonstrates that although we have made much progress in the fight against the Communist Terrorists Groups, we must be continuously vigilant so that such murderous abuses are avoided in the future.”
“The Deped Regional Office V and SDO Masbate are tasked to ensure that learning continuity shall take place. As such, there will be no blanket suspension of classes. The suspension of in-person classes and immediate shift to blended learning shall be left to the discretion of the school heads/principals, upon due assessment and proper coordination with the concerned LGU — keeping in mind the peace and order situation, as well as the mental health of learners and school personnel.”
The DepEd added that the Vice President and Secretary of Education, Sara Z. Duterte, and the Army Division Commander have open communications lines, and the latter has committed to protect school personnel and learners in the area.
The Department supports the Philippine Army, and the VP-Secretary has also expressed her intention to visit the affected areas in Masbate once it is determined by the authorities that her presence will not disrupt ongoing operations.
