By CHRIS V. PANGANIBAN
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur — Local government officials in Bayugan City and the municipality of San Francisco have suspended classes and school operations following a powerful earthquake that struck Mindanao on Monday, citing concerns over possible aftershocks and the need to assess the structural integrity of school facilities.
In Bayugan City, Mayor Kirk Asis ordered the suspension of the first day of classes until further notice as authorities conduct inspections of school buildings and other educational facilities.
“The suspension will allow authorities to conduct proper structural assessments of all school buildings and facilities to ensure the absolute safety of our students, teachers, and school personnel,” Asis said in a public advisory.
The city government urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with local authorities as monitoring and safety evaluations continue. Officials said announcements regarding the resumption of classes will be issued once inspections have been completed.
Meanwhile, San Francisco Mayor Grace Carmel P. Bravo also announced the suspension of classes at all levels and school operations on June 8 following recommendations from the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO).
Bravo said the precautionary measure was implemented in the wake of the magnitude 7.0 earthquake reportedly felt across parts of Mindanao and amid concerns over possible aftershocks.
“Classes at all levels and school operations are hereby suspended today. This is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety and welfare of all students, faculty, and staff,” the mayor said in an advisory.
Local disaster response teams and engineering personnel are expected to inspect school facilities and other public infrastructure to determine whether they remain safe for occupancy.
Authorities have advised residents to stay alert for official updates and follow safety protocols as assessments continue
###
