The Department of Education (DepEd) assured the public that measures are in place to safeguard students as the country braces for hotter days ahead.
In an ABS-CBN News report, Education Secretary Sonny Angara said class schedules may be adjusted to earlier and later hours—6 a.m. to 10 a.m. for morning sessions and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. for afternoon sessions—to help reduce students’ exposure to intense heat. Additional water and rest breaks will also be given, particularly in classrooms without air-conditioning.
This comes after PAGASA warned that the heat index could reach dangerous levels in several areas, including Metro Manila, prompting some local governments to suspend classes.
To ensure learning continues despite class suspensions, Angara said schools are prepared to switch to remote or asynchronous learning if temperatures hit 42°C or if advised by local authorities.
Schools have also been instructed to improve ventilation, provide extra electric fans, set up hydration stations, and keep first aid kits with cooling packs and thermometers ready.
Medical staff will be monitoring students for signs of heat-related illnesses, while outdoor activities will be limited, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
DepEd has also directed schools to regularly share information on how to stay safe during extreme heat.
Although PAGASA said this year’s temperatures may not be as intense as last year, the public is still advised to stay cool, wear light clothing, and drink plenty of water as the dry season approaches.
