In response to the scorching heat brought by the El Niño phenomenon, school administrators have been granted the autonomy to implement measures to alleviate its impact within their respective institutions. This announcement was made by Ian Arnaiz, spokesperson of the Department of Education-Division of Negros Occidental, on Thursday, March 7.
Arnaiz emphasized the need for flexibility, stating, “It will depend on the actual conditions of their schools. There is no rule that applies to all.” This declaration follows concerns raised by parents regarding the conditions of classrooms particularly in public schools amidst rising temperatures attributed to the El Niño phenomenon.
To address these challenges, Arnaiz highlighted that schools could consider shortening classes if necessary. He also underscored the importance of submitting learning continuity plans especially considering the varying conditions between mountainous and low-lying areas.
“With April approaching, we expect schools to submit their strategies on how to adapt as the heat index continues to rise,” Arnaiz added. However, he reassured that the Division Health Unit has not received alarming reports of sick students aside from occasional flu cases.
Furthermore, Arnaiz addressed the issue of school uniforms stating that while the Department of Education (DepEd) maintains a “no uniform” policy, schools are permitted to suspend uniform requirements to mitigate heat stress provided that students dress decently.
According to forecasts from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the heat index in Visayas and Mindanao could soar to 42 degrees Celsius from March to April.
Meanwhile, in response to the anticipated high heat index reaching 40 to 41 degrees Celsius, Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Abelardo “Albee” Benitez has suspended classes for two days in elementary and secondary levels in certain areas. This suspension aims to ensure the safety of students and educators amidst extreme weather conditions.
Benitez also encouraged alternative delivery modes for instruction during the suspension period. However, decisions regarding tertiary level classes are left to the discretion of college or university administrators.
In coordination with the Department of Education, Benitez emphasized that the suspension of classes serves as a precautionary measure to safeguard students. This decision comes after a similar suspension was implemented on March 8 due to a forecasted heat index of 40 degrees Celsius.
In light of the situation, the Department of Education reiterated that extreme temperatures serve as valid grounds for the suspension or cancellation of in-person classes. DepEd’s guidelines permit the implementation of modular distance learning (MDL) modes during such circumstances to ensure continuity in learning objectives.
DepEd Order No. 037, series of 2022, titled “Guidelines on the Cancellation or Suspension of Classes and Work in Schools in the Event of Natural Disasters, Power Outages/Power Interruptions, and Other Calamities” provides the framework for schools to transition to MDL amid adverse conditions ensuring the attainment of learning competencies despite challenges posed by natural phenomena like extreme heat associated with El Niño.
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