Manuel Lugod Central School (MLCS) experienced a notable decline in enrollment from 2020 to 2022, reflecting the broader impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the education sector. During this period, the Philippine government imposed strict health and safety protocols, including the suspension of in-person classes nationwide. As a result, schools adopted modular and online learning modalities.

While these alternatives ensured learning continuity, they also created accessibility challenges—particularly for students with limited internet access, insufficient parental support, or lack of digital resources. These barriers led to a significant drop in enrollment, as many families struggled to adjust to the new learning formats.

The 2022–2023 school year marked a strong recovery for MLCS. With the gradual return to face-to-face classes and easing of restrictions, the school saw a dramatic 15% increase in enrollment—an unprecedented rebound. This reflected renewed public confidence in the safety and value of in-person education, as well as effective re-engagement strategies by the school.

In 2023–2024, enrollment figures began to stabilize, suggesting that the school had reached a new baseline or plateau. This stabilization indicates that the school has successfully regained its pre-pandemic standing and is now operating at a consistent capacity.

This trend provides valuable insight for future planning—ensuring that resources, staffing, and facilities align with the current student population. It also highlights the importance of continuing outreach efforts and addressing any remaining barriers to access, especially for vulnerable or underserved learners.