Two classrooms at Salaan Elementary School in Mangaldan, Pangasinan have been closed after termites destroyed the windows, ceilings, and other parts of the structure, making them unsafe for use.

Parents expressed concern over the condition of the classrooms.

“Sana maayos na kasi kawawa rin ang mga bata dito,” Flora Pasiliao, a parent, said.

“’Yung mga bata kasi kawawa, lalo na diyan binabaha diyan,” Cristine Velasquez, another parent, added.

Aside from the termite-infested rooms, four other classrooms damaged by Tropical Storm Cosme in 2008 have not been repaired as of this writing. For years, these facilities have not been usable.

School Principal Lynnie Gay Estepa said the Department of Education (DepEd) has already completed a soil test as part of a feasibility study for a new two-story building.

“Lagi naman tayong nagre-request at umaasa tayo na ‘yung mga luma na silid-aralan ay mapalitan na ng bago,” Estepa added.

Currently, each class section has its own room, with 27 to 33 pupils per classroom. But the school lacks facilities such as a computer and laboratory building.

If enrolment rises in the coming years, existing classrooms may no longer be enough to accommodate students.

While waiting for approval and funding from the national government, the school has prohibited children from entering or playing near the damaged classrooms for their safety.