Manila: The Department of Education (DepEd) on Wednesday announced the mobilization of PHP3.72 million in clean-up and clearing funds, alongside the prepositioning of thousands of learning and safety supplies, to support schools impacted by Mayon Volcano's ashfall in the Albay province.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DepEd has organized 850 all-weather learning kits known as 'EduKahon,' N95 face masks, hygiene supplies, printers, paper, disinfectants, alcohol, tissues, and other essential classroom materials for the affected schools. In addition, virtual learning and teaching kits valued at PHP20,000 per school have been made available through partner organizations, including People in Need.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the importance of continuous support, stating, "We are continuously mobilizing all necessary support to ensure the safety of our learners, teachers, and schools despite the ongoing unrest of Mayon Volcano." He further assured that learning for the youth will remain uninterrupted alongside the immediate response and delivery of learning and emergency supplies.

The Department has also activated Batang Empowered and Resilient Team (BERT) modules and psychosocial first aid interventions to assist affected learners in coping with the volcanic unrest while ensuring learning continuity in evacuation areas and nearby communities.

As of May 5, two schools in Camalig, Albay-Tagaytay Elementary School and Bariw Elementary School-are serving as evacuation centers for 172 families or 603 individuals, including 53 learners and 10 DepEd personnel. A total of 24 classrooms are currently being used to house evacuees. Overall, 133 schools have been affected by ashfall from Mayon Volcano, which remains under Alert Level 3.