The ill-adapted blended learning system is causing unmanageable mental stress to more and more children. Since its implementation, at least 18 children have reportedly committed suicide after experiencing difficulties in answering modules, due to the lack of a support system, and slow or lack of internet connection.

The last incident was the suicide of a 10-year old child from Catanduanes who reportedly committed suicide last February 17 after failing to answer his module.

Instead of addressing the problem, the DepEd denied that these incidents are related to its failed learning program.

Meanwhile, DepEd’s announcement of its plan to extend the academic year by two weeks was also met with widespread criticism.