Manila: A total of 52 schools are now being utilized as evacuation centers across five regions due to the combined effects of tropical cyclone Maymay and the enhanced southwest monsoon, locally known as habagat, according to the Department of Education (DepEd).

According to Philippines News Agency, the DepEd's latest supplemental report highlighted that the affected schools are located in the regions of Ilocos, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, and Eastern Visayas. The Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service (DRRMS) is actively monitoring the impact of the southwest monsoon on Luzon and Visayas, particularly focusing on areas prone to heavy rain, flooding, and landslides. The report noted that these combined weather disturbances have necessitated the use of 239 classrooms to host approximately 1,057 families.

The breakdown of displaced families indicates that Calabarzon has the highest number of evacuees, sheltering 614 families in schools. This is followed by Central Luzon with 336 families, the Ilocos Region with 54 families, Eastern Visayas with 34 families, and Mimaropa with 19 families. In response to the situation, the DepEd-DRRMS has suggested activating School Disaster Risk Reduction and Management teams at both school division offices and individual schools. These teams are advised to implement contingency plans and maintain close coordination with government units and local disaster response councils to ensure timely dissemination of weather updates and warnings.

Furthermore, schools are urged to safeguard resources such as learning materials, equipment, and infrastructure. Prepositioning of emergency supplies and distribution of EduKahon resources for learners are also emphasized as part of preparedness efforts.