Classes remain suspended in Agusan Sur following strong earthquakes
By Niña Jonalyn Gambe-Diamante
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — Classes in all public and private schools across the province of Agusan del Sur remain suspended as of October 13, following an executive order issued by Governor Santiago B. Cane Jr. in response to a strong earthquake that recently struck the area.
In a Facebook post dated October 12, Gov. Cane reaffirmed the continued suspension of face-to-face classes at all levels, stating, “For those asking about the resumption of classes tomorrow, October 13, 2025, my issued executive order (EO) suspending [face-to-face] classes at all levels in both public and private schools in the whole province due to the strong earthquake, still stands until lifted.”
Cane also shared that he had coordinated with Regional Director Maria Ines Asuncion of the Department of Education (DepEd) Caraga, who assured him that guidelines for modular learning would be issued while the EO remains in effect. “The safety of the students, teachers, and everyone else is of paramount importance,” he said.
During a live broadcast on DXGP, the province’s official radio station, DepEd Agusan del Sur Schools Division Superintendent Josita B. Carmen confirmed the suspension of face-to-face classes and clarified that teachers are not required to report to their respective schools until the EO is lifted.
“With the directive of our provincial governor, our face-to-face classes in schools across Agusan del Sur remain to be suspended until our local chief executive lifts the EO dated October 10. This includes the cancellation of the reporting of our teachers to their respective schools,” Carmen said.
She noted that certain personnel, particularly those handling payroll processing, may be allowed to report onsite to ensure the timely release of salaries. However, she emphasized the need for vigilance and adherence to safety protocols due to the possibility of aftershocks.
“We already have pre-positioned modules per subject area ready for distribution to our students during the temporary shifting to modular learning to ensure the continuity of our children’s education despite the calamity,” Carmen added.
The local government and provincial agencies continue to assess the structural integrity of school buildings and other facilities amid ongoing seismic activity. DepEd officials urge parents, students, and educators to prioritize safety during this period. (NJGD/PIA Caraga)
