The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is helping Philippine authorities restore safe learning environments following the devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck off the coast of Sarangani in Southern Mindanao on June 8, 2026.
The earthquake caused widespread disruption across the region just as the new academic year was beginning. Initial estimates indicate that nearly 3 million students were affected, while around 6,000 schools were exposed to varying levels of damage. Many educational facilities required detailed inspections to determine whether they were safe for students and staff to reoccupy.
Responding to a request from the Philippine Department of Education, UNOPS deployed a rapid technical assessment mission to evaluate damaged school infrastructure. Engineers conducted inspections in Sarangani Province, General Santos City, and nearby communities, examining classrooms, structural components, roofing systems, and water and sanitation facilities.
The assessment process was carried out under challenging conditions, with ongoing aftershocks and landslides affecting access to some areas. Experts also had to distinguish new earthquake damage from structural issues caused by a previous earthquake in 2023.
The findings from the assessments are providing critical data for government recovery planning. Authorities are using the information to identify buildings that can safely reopen, prioritize repairs, and determine where reconstruction efforts are needed.
In the short term, recovery efforts focus on ensuring student safety, clearing debris, and maintaining access to education through temporary learning arrangements. Long-term plans include rebuilding damaged infrastructure and improving resilience against future natural disasters.
The Mindanao earthquake highlights the importance of disaster-resilient school infrastructure in protecting communities and ensuring educational continuity. Through its technical expertise, UNOPS is helping local authorities make informed recovery decisions and create safer learning environments for millions of students across the region.
