The Department of Education (DepEd) on Tuesday assured support to Philippine Schools Overseas (PSOs) amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara made the assurance during a virtual dialogue, dubbed “Online Kumustahan,” with Filipino educators and 27 PSOs in the Middle East, in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

In his message, Angara reiterated the agency’s commitment to ensuring the welfare of Filipino teachers and learners affected in the region.

“Narito kami upang magbigay ng suporta at malinaw na gabay para masiguro ang pag-aaral at seguridad ng ating mga OFW (overseas Filipino workers) at kanilang mga pamilya sa gitna ng hamong ito (We are here to provide support and clear guidance to ensure learning and security of our OFWs and their families amid this crisis),” he said.

During the dialogue, the DepEd reached out to Filipino teachers and more than 23,000 Filipino learners across 27 PSOs in the Middle East.

Cited in the discussion were crisis communication protocols and academic flexibility, subject to the regulations of the PSOs’ host countries.

The DepEd officials were also able to address challenges in operational hurdles cited by the heads of PSOs.

As part of the agency’s actions, the “Online Kumustahan” sessions or dialogue will be held regularly to address concerns and answer inquiries of PSO heads.

To date, PSOs are operating in 10 countries, serving more than 25,000 learners. (PNA)