Regional safety measure after Magnitude 6.0 earthquake near Siargao
The Department of Education (DepEd) Caraga Regional Office announced a regional work-from-home arrangement for all personnel on October 17 as a precautionary response to a magnitude 6.0 earthquake that struck near Siargao Island early Friday. The directive reflects a broader safety-first approach as authorities monitor aftershocks and assess public facilities.
What the memorandum says
In a formal memorandum, DepEd Caraga Regional Director Maria Ines C. Asuncion emphasized that the work-from-home setup aims to protect teachers, learners, and staff while the situation remains under evaluation. The document directs all Schools Division Offices and public schools in the region to exercise prudence and make decisions rooted in local safety assessments. Schools are urged to proceed with caution before resuming face-to-face classes or on-site operations.
Local actions in Tandag and nearby areas
Following the regional directive, engineers and early responders in Tandag City conducted rapid safety checks of school buildings, public infrastructures, and critical facilities to determine structural integrity and public safety. Classes in Tandag were temporarily suspended as a precaution, in line with DepEd Caraga’s guidance that school heads tailor responses based on local conditions and safety findings.
Safety assessments as a prerequisite for reopening
Education officials stressed that reopening decisions will hinge on comprehensive safety assessments and the outcomes of building inspections. DepEd Caraga’s stance aligns with standard emergency response procedures that prioritize safe learning environments and orderly operations in the wake of natural hazards.
Public advisory and ongoing vigilance
Authorities continue to urge the public to stay in designated safe areas, monitor official advisories, and remain prepared for possible aftershocks. While no major damage or injuries have been reported, the incident has prompted heightened awareness across schools and local government units in Caraga.
What comes next for schools and staff
As the region adapts to the aftereffects of the earthquake, DepEd Caraga is expected to issue further updates outlining timelines for resuming classes and on-site operations. The emphasis remains on safety first, with school heads empowered to make decisions grounded in real-time assessments and local conditions. Teachers, learners, and staff will continue to work remotely where feasible while monitoring structural and environmental conditions in their respective districts.
Context and broader implications
The Siargao event underscores the importance of preparedness in seismically active regions. Education leaders in Caraga are balancing the immediate need to protect vulnerable communities with the goal of minimizing disruption to learning. As more data from engineers and disaster response teams becomes available, DepEd Caraga will likely provide updated guidance on school operations, facility maintenance, and safety protocols for the weeks ahead.
In summary, DepEd Caraga’s precautionary work-from-home directive reflects a proactive, safety-oriented response to the earthquake near Siargao. With ongoing inspections and local risk assessments, the region aims to safeguard students and staff while ensuring a smooth transition back to regular educational activities when conditions permit.
