DepEd pushes new tool to shield schools from disaster disruptions

Education officials in the Philippines are rolling out a new digital system to help schools better prepare for and respond to natural hazards that disrupt learning. Education Secretary Sonny Angara called on school leaders, teachers, and disaster risk reduction coordinators to integrate the hazard assessment tool—known as LIGTAS+—into their regular emergency readiness procedures.

The platform represents an effort by the Department of Education to create a more systematic approach to managing classroom disruptions triggered by typhoons, floods, earthquakes, and other natural disasters that frequently affect the archipelago. By adopting the assessment tool, administrators can identify vulnerabilities in their facilities and communities, allowing them to develop more effective contingency plans.

Angara's directive reflects growing concerns about the impact of climate-related events on school operations and student learning outcomes across the nation. The Philippines, situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire and typhoon belt, faces regular threats from multiple natural hazards that have historically led to extended school closures and disrupted academic calendars.

School officials are expected to utilize LIGTAS+ to conduct comprehensive risk evaluations of their institutions and surrounding areas. The assessment process will enable educators to better coordinate with local disaster management agencies and implement preventive measures that could minimize future interruptions to the educational calendar.