Manila: To ensure learning continuity in disaster-prone areas, the Department of Education (DepEd) on Friday announced it has accelerated the deployment of Learning Continuity Spaces (LCS). This move aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to prioritize quality education and safeguard the welfare of learners and teachers within the public school system.

According to Philippines News Agency, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the importance of disaster-resilient LCS in preventing learning loss in vulnerable areas. The initiative is designed to offer a rapid and cost-effective solution to address classroom shortages in schools with pressing infrastructure needs.

Secretary Angara stated, "Malinaw ang direktiba sa atin ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos na tiyaking walang maiiwang mag-aaral, kaya itong Learning Continuity Spaces ang mabilis nating tugon para hindi maputol ang kanilang klase tuwing may kalamidad (The directive of President Marcos is clear -- to ensure that no learner will be left behind. The LCS is our immediate response to prevent class disruptions in times of calamities)."

Under the PHP3.5-billion LCS program, at least five disaster-resilient prefab units have been deployed to Quezon, Bulacan, Davao del Norte, Davao de Oro, and Bohol. Angara highlighted that these modern prefab classrooms help overcome typical construction delays while ensuring high-quality and safe learning environments.

Currently, 159 out of the 1,622 target prefab units of LCS are under construction, with completion expected by July. Additionally, 505 units are in various stages of procurement, including 462 sites under active procurement and 43 projects awaiting their final Notice to Proceed.

DepEd is also engaging diversified implementation strategies, partnering with 109 local government units and pursuing Public-Private Partnership initiatives to construct 3,100 classrooms under the School Infrastructure Program.