Politics · Philippines Bureau
Bulalacao suspends classes at seven schools after armed encounter
The municipal government of Bulalacao in Oriental Mindoro has ordered the closure of seven schools following an armed clash between military and an unidentified armed group. The suspension took effect Thursday as authorities assessed the security situation in affected areas of the town.
LSN Philippines ·
Mayor Lumelito M. Cabagay issued Memorandum Order No. 10-289, series of 2026, on October 14, directing the suspension of face-to-face classes in the seven schools. The action was taken in response to a reported armed encounter between Army troops and members of an armed group operating in portions of the municipality.
The suspension applies to all in-person instruction at the affected schools, though officials did not immediately specify whether alternative learning arrangements would be implemented. The closure marks a precautionary measure as military and local authorities work to contain the situation and restore normalcy in the community.
No casualties or damage assessments were reported in the immediate aftermath of the armed clash. Bulalacao municipal officials have not released additional details regarding the armed encounter or timeline for when classes might resume.
The incident underscores ongoing security challenges in parts of Mindoro, where armed groups have periodically engaged with government forces. School suspensions have become a recurring disruption to education in the region during periods of active military operations or civil unrest.