Philippine schools in the Middle East are grappling with significant disruptions to education as geopolitical conflicts escalate. The ongoing war between the United States and Israel against Iran has forced numerous institutions to shift to online learning.
In Bahrain, 13-year-old Juliane Nastor was among the many students affected. Her school, the Philippine School Bahrain, transitioned to remote classes as missile strikes targeted the region.
Parents express concerns not just about academics but also about the psychological impact on their children. Johnny Nastor, Juliane’s father, stressed that the blasts and alarms were causing anxiety.
Educational Institutions Struggling to Adapt
The Association of Philippine Schools Overseas (APSO) estimates that around 26,000 students are enrolled in Philippine Schools Overseas (PSOs) in the Middle East for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Many PSOs have reported disruptions due to the conflict, with teachers in Qatar having to pause lessons for safety reasons during missile interceptions.
You can’t continue to teach if there are sounds of attacks in the background.
Noemi Formaran, vice principal, Philippine School Doha
The shift to online learning has been complicated by the psychological toll of ongoing conflicts. Students are finding it increasingly difficult to concentrate amid the chaos.
Counseling Services on the Rise
To address the rising mental health concerns, many schools are enhancing counseling services. Some have set up hotlines for students to communicate with counselors.
Formaran noted that parents are reaching out more frequently for support, highlighting the emotional strain on both students and teachers.
Impact on Learning and Resources
The war has also affected logistical aspects of education, such as textbook deliveries due to increased shipping costs from conflict-related surcharges.
Schools in Jeddah, while relatively safe, are still experiencing price hikes for educational materials. Principal Miracle Tapado of the International Philippine School in Jeddah reported that their book costs will rise due to shipping surcharges.
Hope for Stability
Families like the Nastors are hoping for a ceasefire to restore a sense of normalcy. Juliane expressed her preference for in-person classes, emphasizing that online learning lacks the same focus.
As PSO leaders meet with the Department of Education for support, they remain committed to navigating the challenges posed by the conflict in the Middle East.
The situation remains precarious, and many are praying for peace to return, allowing students to complete their education without further interruptions.