DepEd: F2F classes in public schools on April 29-30 suspended

The Department of Education (DepEd) on Sunday announced the suspension of face-to-face classes in all public schools nationwide and a shift to distance learning on April 29 to 30 due to the extreme heat and the impending transport strike.

In an advisory, DepEd said that teaching and non-teaching personnel in all public schools will also not be required to report to their respective stations during the said dates.

The agency made the announcement in light of the latest forecast of state weather bureau PAGASA, showing that over 30 areas might experience a dangerous level of heat index ranging from 42 to 51°C on April 29.

The three-day nationwide strike by PISTON from April 29 to May 1 in protest of the public utility vehicle modernization program (PUVMP) and the looming April 30 deadline for consolidation of jeepney franchises also became a factor for the in-person classes suspension in public schools.

Private schools, on the other hand, were not covered by the advisory but have the option to follow suit, according to DepEd.

Activities organized by regional and schools division offices, such as Regional Athletic Association Meets and other division or school level programs, that were set on April 29-30 may also push through given that measures for the safety of all participants were carefully considered.—RF, GMA Integrated News