September 25–26, 2025 | DEBESMSCAT Mandaon Campus
In its continuing commitment to safeguarding employee welfare, promoting safe and humane working conditions, and upholding the dignity and rights of its workforce, the Dr. Emilio B. Espinosa, Sr. Memorial State College of Agriculture and Technology (DEBESMSCAT) announced the suspension of classes and work at its Mandaon Campus on September 25–26, 2025, in anticipation of the possible effects of Typhoon Opong.
The suspension was issued in accordance with the advisory of the Local Government of Mandaon as a proactive measure to protect students, faculty members, administrative personnel, and their families from potential hazards, including heavy rainfall, strong winds, flooding, and landslides.
The institutional response highlights the importance of ensuring that employees are not unnecessarily exposed to unsafe working conditions during emergencies. By observing the local government’s suspension directive, DEBESMSCAT demonstrated its commitment to prioritizing the safety, well-being, and protection of its personnel.
Consistent with the principles of decent work and ethical employment, the institution recognizes the importance of protecting workers from exploitation, coercion, forced labor, human trafficking, child labor, and other practices that violate fundamental labor and human rights.
While regular campus operations were suspended, security services personnel were advised to continue their essential duties to maintain campus safety and security. The continuation of essential services underscores the importance of ensuring that operational responsibilities are carried out with due consideration for employee welfare, occupational safety, and applicable labor standards.
Students, faculty members, and administrative personnel were encouraged to remain vigilant, stay in safe locations, and follow official advisories issued by PAGASA, the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), and other concerned government agencies.
Through this precautionary measure, DEBESMSCAT reinforces the principle that institutional operations must be balanced with the protection of human dignity, employee rights, and workplace safety.
The initiative also reflects the institution’s support for Sustainable Development Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, particularly the promotion of safe working environments, fundamental labor rights, and the elimination of exploitative labor practices.
DEBESMSCAT remains committed to fostering a responsible, ethical, and people-centered institutional environment where the safety, dignity, and well-being of every member of its academic and administrative workforce are recognized and respected.
Ladies and gentlemen,
