Overview: A rapid shift to blended and asynchronous learning
In the wake of Friday’s magnitude 7.6 earthquake and ongoing aftershocks, schools across Soccsksargen (SOX) moved away from traditional face-to-face instruction. Local governments directed a transition to blended and asynchronous learning modes to give engineers time to assess structural integrity and to safeguard students, teachers, and staff. The emergency response emphasizes both safety and continuity of education during a period of heightened risk.
General Santos City: Immediate steps and safety priorities
General Santos City announced that classes would shift to asynchronous learning on Monday, October 13, and Tuesday, October 14. The move allows engineers to conduct comprehensive structural inspections of school facilities and ensures that learning environments meet safety standards before in-person sessions resume. A public advisory on the city government’s Facebook page underscored two key objectives: a thorough safety assessment of all school facilities and the protection of students’ and staff members’ mental and emotional well-being during a period of disruption.
Provincial and municipal actions: Coordinated safety measures
The Sarangani Provincial Information Office reported that Governor Rogelio D. Pacquiao issued Executive Order No. 32, Series of 2025, suspending face-to-face classes province-wide on the same dates and guiding the implementation of alternative learning modalities. The order also notes that government work continues as usual, and face-to-face classes will resume once engineers issue written clearances and confirm facility safety.
Regional response: Variations among neighboring areas
Across South Cotabato, several municipalities announced one-day class suspensions for Monday, October 13, to provide time for structural assessments. Polomolok Mayor Bernie D. Palencia advised shifting to asynchronous and online learning for the day, while Tantangan Mayor Timee G. Torres-Gonzales issued a similar advisory. Kidapawan Mayor Pao Evangelista and Norala’s Municipal PIO also ordered one-day suspensions to enable schools to implement alternative or blended learning modalities. These measures reflect a coordinated regional approach aimed at rapid safety checks while minimizing disruption to education.
What this means for students and teachers
Blended learning—combining limited in-person interaction with online and asynchronous components—helps schools maintain instructional continuity while safety inspections are underway. For students, this can mean flexible access to lessons, assignments, and assessments from home or other approved learning spaces. For teachers, the shift requires adaptation in lesson planning, the use of digital platforms, and clear communication with families to ensure all students remain engaged and supported during the transition.
Safety first: Balancing education with public protection
The emphasis on safety inspections highlights a traditional priority for post-disaster education in the Philippines: ensuring classrooms are structurally sound and safe for return. While the examinations are ongoing, authorities stress that learning must continue in the safest possible manner. The use of blended modalities is a practical solution that reduces risk while maintaining access to essential curricula and support services for students.
Looking ahead: Returning to full classroom instruction
Officials expect to resume face-to-face classes and normal operations once engineers review facilities and issue clearances. The ongoing monitoring of aftershocks will continue to inform decisions about when and how to re-open schools and offices. As communities recover, the blended learning framework may persist in some form, offering resilience against future disruptions while expanding access to digital learning resources.
Community and parental engagement
Active communication with parents and guardians remains crucial. By keeping families informed about inspection timelines, learning modalities, and available supports, schools can reduce anxiety and ensure that learners stay on track academically. Local governments’ transparent updates through official channels help build trust and cooperation during an uncertain period.
