RDC seeks addt'l spaces for new schools in Tacloban relocation sites

TACLOBAN CITY, Sept. 16 (PNA) –- The Regional Development Council (RDC) has asked the National Housing Authority (NHA) to provide at least 5,000 square meters of lot to establish schools for each resettlement site in the northern part of the city.

In a resolution, the RDC noted that NHA only allocated 1,200 square meters for the establishment of schools for every relocation site. New classrooms are intended for approximately 34,659 learners by next year.

Citing DepEd Order No. 40, series of 2014, the RDC said that "one of the criteria to be met for the establishment of schools is the existence and availability of school site at least 5,000 square meters or one half hectare for rural areas."

"In order to continue the studies of the school children and students affected by super typhoon Yolanda, there is a pressing need to immediately construct classrooms and learning spaces with toilet and other required facilities," the RDC resolution stated.

The national government pushed for establishment of new campuses near permanent homes due to high transportation costs of going to schools in nearby villages.

"That would cause additional financial burden to the affected families and may result to discontinuation of the school children’s studies," the RDC said.

The Tacloban City government admitted that the absence of learning facilities impedes the relocation of affected families. Of the 6,000 completed permanent houses, only 2,000 units have been occupied.

With the absence of needed 558 new classrooms, the Department of Education and the city government built 65 temporary learning spaces for this academic year.

Resettlement sites are located in 10 villages – Cabalawan, Camansihay, Kawayan, New Kawayan, Suhi, Salvacion, San Isidro, Sto. Niño, Tigbao, and Tagpuro.

By 2018, around 16,281 families will be moved to relocation sites in 10 villages tagged as safe from storm surges, landslide, and flooding. (PNA)
JMC/SARWELL Q. MENIANO