THE Department of Education (Deped) in Davao Region denied the accusations of a non-government organization that several schools they operate have been ordered closed by the Davao del Norte schools division.
Ronie Garcia, admin officer of the Salugpungan Ta Tanu Igkanugon Community Learning Center (STTICLC), earlier said that around 36 schools in Talaingod and Kapalong towns in Davao del Norte have been closed since last month.
But DepEd-Davao information officer Jenilito Atillo said the schools were not opened due to their failure tp renew their annual permit to operate.
"Gusto nakong klarohon nga walay pasirad-an na Salugpongan or Misfi schools nga on permit status kay in the first place, wala lang man gi-open ilang mga eskwelahan for the year 2015-2016 (I will just want to make it clear that no Salugpongan or Misfi school operating on permit status was ordered closed. They were simply not opened for school year 2015-2016)," Atillo said.
He said that based on the law, BP 232, no school is allowed to operate without a permit.
The closure of the schools operated by the STTICLC was recommended by Schools Division Superintendent Josephine Fadul.
Atillo said the students have nothing to worry because the DepEd will establish a school system in the affected areas via integrated school and multigrade or combination class systems "the soonest."
"Dili problema if nakasugod na ang klase karon (It's not a problem if they will start late), we will just extend their class days by having a late closing ceremony para ma-cover gyud ang (to cover the) 201 school days for the school year 2015-2016," he said.
Atillo added that with regard the recommendation to use soldiers as para-teachers, DepEd Regional Director Alberto Escobarte is against such plan. (ICT)