Walang Pasok: Onsite Class Suspensions From April 11 To 19 Due To Extreme Heat

Walang Pasok: Onsite Class Suspensions From April 11 To 19 Due To Extreme Heat

Dangerously high heat index forecasts have led several regions across the country to suspend face-to-face classes from Thursday, April 11 to Friday, April 19.

The state weather bureau has reported that high heat indexes, exceeding 42 degrees Celsius, could lead to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke during continued exposure.

List of areas with suspended face-to-face classes:

Ilocos Region

Manaoag, Pangasinan – all levels until April 12 (both public and private)

Cagayan Valley

Solano, Nueva Vizcaya – preschool to high school, April 11 (both public and private)

Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya – preschool to high school, April 11 (both public and private)

Central Luzon

Bulacan – all levels until April 13 (both public and private)

Laguna

University of the Philippines, Los Baños – remote and/or asynchronous learning modes for April

Bicol Region

Daraga, Albay – all levels until April 12 (both public and private)

Western Visayas

Iloilo City – all levels, April 11 (public)

Soccsksargen

Sarangani – all levels until April 19 (both public and private)

Tantangan, South Cotabato – afternoon classes in all levels until April 15 (both public and private)

Banga, South Cotabato – afternoon classes in all levels until April 15 (both public and private)

Polomolok, South Cotabato – afternoon classes in all levels until April 15 (both public and private)

Tupi, South Cotabato – afternoon classes in preschool to secondary level until April 12 (both public and private)

Tboli, South Cotabato – afternoon classes in all levels until April 12 (both public and private)

Sultan Kudarat – all levels until April 15 (both public and private)

DepEd’s response to heat

The Department of Education (DepEd) has previously authorized schools to switch to modular or online learning modes to mitigate health risks to students and teachers from the heat. This directive empowers school heads to suspend on-site classes if the heat index hits or exceeds 40 degrees Celsius, and even when the temperature becomes unbearably hot, without reaching the specified threshold.

Heat safety tips

We asked parents to share their strategies for helping children to cope with the heat. Some of the responses include:

• Use of portable cooling devices such as fans and cooling sprays.
• Staying hydrated.
• Wearing casual or lighter clothing.
• Applying and using sun protection, such as sunscreen, hats, and umbrellas.

For more tips on protecting your family from extreme heat, consider reading the following resources.

Click here for recommended portable fans for kids.