First District Representative Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr. has filed House Resolution No. 368 urging the Department of Education (DepEd) to suspend face-to-face classes nationwide for at least two weeks and shift temporarily to alternative learning modes such as modules and online classes.
The proposed two-week suspension aims to give DepEd and schools enough time to craft comprehensive emergency and disaster response guidelines to ensure the safety of students, teachers, and staff.
Cong. Pogi’s call follows a series of earthquakes that struck Cebu (Sept. 30), La Union (Oct. 9), Davao (Oct. 10), and Zambales and Surigao del Sur (Oct. 11). Reports and viral videos from these incidents showed students and school personnel panicking and uncertain of proper safety procedures during the tremors.
“Given our country’s vulnerability to typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions, regular drills are not enough,” Lazatin said. “We need clear, specific guidelines that outline how school administrators, teachers, and students should respond during disasters and emergencies.”
The congressman added that while the resolution is non-binding, it echoes the concerns of parents who fear for their children’s safety in schools.
Cong Pogi also met recently with officials from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Anti-Cybercrime Group, along with DepEd First District representatives, to address the recent surge of bomb threat hoaxes circulating on social media and to establish response protocols for schools.
“These efforts go hand in hand — ensuring our schools are not only centers of learning but also places of safety and preparedness,” Lazatin emphasized.
