Manila, Oct. 13 -- The Department of Education (DepEd) on Monday said regional and division offices may suspend in-person classes to ensure that schools are structurally safe and prepared for earthquakes and other natural disasters.

DepEd issued the statement following the two-day suspension of face-to-face classes in Metro Manila due to reports of influenza-like illnesses among students and recent earthquakes in parts of the country.

DepEd Media Relations Chief Dennis Legaspi said the suspension of classes serves as a preventive measure to safeguard learners, teachers, and school personnel.

"Regional and Schools Division Offices of the DepEd may implement preventive suspensions to conduct structural inspections and other activities to...