An estimated 1.3 million K to 12 learners were expected to troop back to school in the Negros Island Region (NIR) on Monday, June 16.
“The figure is not final but we expect more or less 1.3 million learners for all (K to 12) levels in the NIR,” Department of Education NIR Regional Director Dr. Ramir B. Uytico said.
The initial total enrollment figure will be known by the end of the week, he said.
They will allow enrollment in Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental and Siquijor until August, he said.
Uytico said they are still faced with lack of classrooms and teachers in the NIR, which is a nationwide concern.
They are gathering the data since the DepEd NIR was only recently created and they still have to coordinate with Regions 6 and 7, he added.
He said while there is a lack of teachers, hiring of more is on process.
Uytico said he is visiting schools in La Castellana, Negros Occidental, that were recently vacated by evacuees from areas surrounding Kanlaon Volcano to make way for the start of classes.
He will meet with La Castellana school officials on Tuesday to make sure that if the volcano erupts again there will be learning continuity, Uytico said.
Uytico, in a message to DepEd NIR personnel on Monday, said “As we officially begin School Year 2025–2026, we are called once again to nurture minds, inspire hearts, and remain resilient in fulfilling our mandate of delivering quality education to every Filipino learner.”
“As one DepEd Negros Island Region, we must continue to build schools that are safe, inclusive, and learner-centered. Let us be steadfast in our service, grounded in our values, and driven by the goal of uplifting every child entrusted to our care,” he said.*