By Michelle Ducut
The Department of Education (DepEd) in the Ilocos Region has received PHP167.35 million from its central office’s Quick Response Fund (QRF) to rehabilitate classrooms damaged by recent weather disturbances.
Darius Nieto, project development officer of DepEd Ilocos Region, confirmed during a forum on Wednesday that the allocation will cover major repairs, while minor repairs were handled by schools with assistance from local government units and other partners.
According to Nieto, 123 classrooms in 73 locations have been identified for repair or rehabilitation. Additionally, seven classrooms in two sites are slated for new construction.
DepEd Ilocos Region assistant director Rhoda Razon outlined the timeline for the repairs, emphasizing the urgency of the process. Preparatory activities by the engineering department have already been conducted, with the pre-procurement stage set to begin on December 27. The project will be posted on the Philippine Government Electronic Procurement System (PhilGEPS) by December 29, with bids to be submitted starting January 18, 2025.
“We aim to issue the notice to proceed by February, ensuring the start of repairs and construction in time for the opening of classes in June 2025,” Razon explained.
DepEd Ilocos Region Director Tolentino Aquino emphasized the need to address the learning gaps caused by class suspensions during the series of weather disturbances. In a memorandum issued on November 7, Aquino directed the suspension of school-based non-curricular and co-curricular activities to maximize classroom hours and ensure effective curriculum delivery.
The allocation aims to provide safe and functional learning environments for students as the region continues to recover from the impact of recent calamities.