What lengths would you go to, to continue your education? For 12-year-old Jonathan Mapa of the Philippines, it includes defying his dad's wishes and scavenging for recyclable trash in the dangerous streets - so he can earn money towards a handphone that will let him join in remote-learning classes.

The Philippines is one of the last few countries in the world where schools have remained shuttered since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. While schools have conducted remote lessons, an estimated 6.3 million households don't have Internet access, while 2 million households - like Jonathan's - don't have devices for learning. And at least 2 million students have dropped out of school entirely.

There are plans soon for a pilot to reopen some schools, but the damage done may be permanent for a generation of youths struggling to escape the poverty cycle. Many may never be able to return to school, with the badly-hit economy leaving families desperate for income; while others have fallen too far behind.

"Unless the kids are educated, there is no hope for them to improve their standing in life," said Edilberto De Jesus of the Ateneo School of Government.

"I worry about my future," said a despondent and weary Jonathan, whose meagre earnings have gone to his family's needs rather than a handphone for online classes.

WATCH: Asia's Lost Generation: The Hidden Cost Of COVID-19 For Philippines' Youth    • Asia's Lost Generation: The Hidden Co...  

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