DepEd mandates PWD accessibility, disaster resilience in new schools

Manila — The Department of Education has unveiled enhanced building standards that will govern the construction of new public schools across the country, prioritizing accessibility for persons with disabilities and resilience against natural disasters.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara introduced the requirements through DepEd Order No. 022, s. 2026, which establishes the Enhanced Minimum Performance Standards and Specifications (MPSS) for public basic education facilities. The new standards represent a comprehensive overhaul of existing infrastructure guidelines, setting stricter benchmarks for future school construction projects.

Under the updated framework, all new public schools must incorporate design features and infrastructure that provide safe and equitable access for students and staff with disabilities. Simultaneously, the standards mandate that school buildings be constructed to withstand natural disasters, reflecting the Philippines' vulnerability to typhoons, earthquakes, and flooding.

The enhanced standards address long-standing concerns about educational facility quality and inclusivity. By requiring disaster-resilient construction from the outset, the DepEd aims to protect school infrastructure investments and ensure learning continuity during emergencies. The accessibility requirements align with the country's commitment to inclusive education and compliance with disability rights standards.

The rollout of the new standards is expected to shape public school construction and renovation projects going forward, establishing a baseline for facility development across the nation's basic education system.