Davao: The Department of Education (DepEd) is closely monitoring the situation after the magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck Manay, Davao Oriental affected nearly 10,000 learners across several regions.

According to Philippines News Agency, the quake impacted schools in parts of the Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Davao Region, Soccsksargen, and Caraga. In a statement, DepEd Chief Media Relations Officer Dennis Legaspi noted that the agency has activated its Disaster Risk Reduction and Management teams and Rapid Assessment of Damages Report (RADaR) system to assess the condition of schools and facilities.

"Classes and work in affected areas have been suspended by local authorities," Legaspi stated in a Viber message to reporters. As of 12 noon, at least 9,923 learners and 490 teachers were affected, with five learners and one teacher sustaining injuries, based on the Incident Management Response System.

Out of 12,399 schools in the affected regions, 202 classrooms were reported damaged-173 classrooms sustained minor damage while 29 classrooms were severely affected, according to the DepEd Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service. Additionally, at least 559 schools have suspended classes in Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, and Misamis Oriental.