Himamaylan and Kabankalan cities in Negros Occidental suspended classes on March 5 after the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) forecasted a heat index of 40 degrees Celsius.
Local officials in Himamaylan and Kabankalan urged residents to take precautions against the extreme heat, emphasizing the importance of staying hydrated and limiting outdoor activities.
Himamaylan learners have temporarily transitioned to alternative learning modes to ensure continuity of education, as outlined in the executive order signed by Mayor Raymund Tongson.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara said the Department of Education (DepEd) has reminded schools to implement Department Order No. 22, which outlines guidelines for class suspensions during disasters and emergencies.
The department order issued in December 2024 does not automatically suspend classes due to extreme heat. Instead, it allows local government units (LGUs) to suspend classes in their areas, provided that schools implement modular distance learning, performance tasks, projects, or make-up classes.
If the LGU does not declare a suspension, DepEd policy allows school heads to suspend in-person classes if the heat poses health risks to students and teachers.
The department also recommends schools shift to distance learning when the heat index reaches 42°C or higher.
However, shifting to remote learning presents challenges, as not all students and teachers have access to the necessary technology.
Rappler earlier reported that based on DepEd data in October 2024 “only 37% of teachers have laptops, and just 17% of students have access to the devices required for online learning.”
While printed learning modules can be used, not all students have someone to guide them at home. In some cases, parents end up completing the modules instead of the students.*
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, maintains a personal blog on Medium, and is the communications officer of Hope Builders Organization Negros Island.