The Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas today said millions of rural youth learners in the provinces, along with their parents are in a quandary as classes for the school year 2020-2021 open today under the Department of Education’s Basic Education–Learning Continuity Plan.

“It’s too early for DepEd to claim victory over the pandemic. The real battle of 24 million students to learn and survive the school year starts today,” according to KMP leader Danilo Ramos said in response to Secretary Briones’ address to teachers and students this morning.

“Many rural-based learners have opted not to enroll due to the many limitations and challenges that come with DepEd’s various learning modalities — blended, modular, and distance learning. The teachers are not ready, the students and their parents as well are not ready and ill-equipped. Those who enrolled for this school year will have to hurdle daily challenges. Under this situation, rural-based learners are at a great disadvantage and among the most marginalized,” says Ramos.

“Ang mga anak ng mga magsasaka, mangingisda at iba pang masa sa mga probinsya ang may malaking disbentahe sa sitwasyong ito. Kung dati na silang hirap makapag-aral at matuto. Ngayon, lalo pa silang mawawalan ng pagkakataon na makapag-aral,” the peasant leader said. Paano pa pagsasabayin ng mga magulang na magsasaka ang pagtatrabaho sa bukid at pagtuturo sa kanilang mga anak gamit ang modules? Marami sa kanila hindi rin nakapag aral at limitado ang kakayahan.”

“While the DepEd and Secretary Liling Briones are brandishing the department’s so-called readiness and capabilities in handling the drastic changes for this school year, the actual condition and experience of our learners will best gauge DepEd’s capabilities and performance,” Ramos said.

“Nangangamba kami na marami ang maiiwan at posibleng magdrop-out at karamihan dito ay ang mga estudyante sa mga probinsya,” the KMP leader said.

KMP also relayed its gratitude to teachers who remain steadfast in teaching the Filipino youth and students despite the stark lack of support from DepEd. “Teachers are our front liners in learning. We thank and appreciate all their hard work and efforts as we observe World Teachers Day.”