After the volcanic eruption, many families left their homes. They stayed in evacuation camps, including the Jorolan and Sarona families from Barangay Pula, in the 4-6 kilometer danger zone from Mt. Kanlaon.

In camp nine (9) at Linothangan Elementary School camp, Prince Rex Jorolan and Jay-R Sarona focused on their schoolwork.

Prince, a 7th grader, works hard to finish his science module. He says, “Humanon ni nako kay naa koy klase unyang hapon sa St. Joseph College (I have to finish my science module today because I have class at St. Joseph Collegel this afternoon).” His school uses a blended learning approach, so he does his modules in the morning and attends face-to-face classes in the afternoon.

When asked if he finds it hard to study in the evacuation camp, Prince acknowledges that sometimes, it is hard to study inside the camp, but he manages. Jay-R, a 10th grader at Pula National High School, is also working on his English and Math modules but could not concentrate on studying and understanding his subjects because learning in the camp differs from conventional classroom classes.

It is one of the two challenges these students face inside the camp.

The threat of a possible severe effect of the eruption when the alert level elevates to 4 poses another challenge.

But despite these, Prince and Jay-R enthusiastically work on their modules.

The students are thankful for the support provided by the camp personnel, including James Rocel Borromeo, a City Link under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). He mentioned that when they have free time, they assist the students by explaining the subject matter to help them understand better.

As a 4Ps worker, he monitors 4Ps child beneficiaries and encourages them to concentrate and focus on their studies here in the camp. He also wants to do the same and help these students prioritize education. James said, “We find time to help them with their learning.”

Camp 9 at Linothangan Elementary School accommodates about 20 students, a mix of elementary and senior high school. The camp personnel allowed the students to complete their school work besides the daily activities arranged at the camp.

Camp manager Marestella Ocianas said they allow the students to leave the camp to get their modules from their teachers if they cannot deliver the modules to the camp.

“We want to ensure that these students can continue their studies in the camp,” Marestella shared.

James and all the camp personnel hope that after the volcanic eruptions end, the students will finish their studies.

The camp personnel believe that once these eruptions are over, they will witness these students achieving their educational goals and realizing that with determination, nothing can hinder their thirst for knowledge. ###

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