DepEd: Classes suspended once heat index hits 42 degrees Celsius, but coordination with LGU needed

The Department of Education (DepEd) said a school can suspend both physical and online classes once the local temperature hits 42 degrees Celsius, upon coordination with the concerned local government unit (LGU).

The agency issued the statement amid the ongoing El Niño phenomenon, which is expected to bring record-breaking temperatures in the Philippines especially when it rises to a very strong or "super" phase late in the year.

In a media interview at Lakan Dula High School in Tondo, Manila, Education Secretary Sonny Angara said, "They (School officials) should just notify the LGU, part 'yun, required iyon kasi part of coordination iyon para hindi magulat si mayor or so governor na bakit nag-uuwian na 'yung mga bata."

(They should just notify the LGU, that's required as part of the coordination so that the mayor or governor would not be surprised that the kids are going home.)

DepEd has issued Memorandum No. 64 s. 2026, which sets comprehensive guidelines for schools during the El Niño.

Under the new memorandum, extreme heat will no longer trigger a blanket suspension nationwide.

School heads are instead expected to use a localized, decision-making tool that relies on indoor classroom temperature and humidity readings taken at 8 a.m., 12 noon, and 2 p.m.

According to the DepEd's new guidelines, there will be regular, face-to-face classes if the heat index is below 27 degrees Celsius.

When conditions rise to anywhere between degrees Celsius to 32 degrees Celsius, school heads can choose to shorten onsite hours or transition into hybrid learning.

Once the heat levels reach anywhere between 33 and 41 degrees Celsius, physical classes are suspended and learners will shift to home-based tasks.

If the heat level reaches 42 degrees Celsius and above, physical and home-based activities are completely suspended.

"We cannot afford to wait until extreme heat hits before we act. Our plan this year is proactive, deliberate, and organized," Angara said in a press statement.

"We are making sure our schools are fully prepared to manage heat stress, water shortages, and health risks, protecting the safety and well-being of our learners and personnel without unnecessarily sacrificing precious classroom time," he added. — VDV, GMA News