Several schools in Mindanao have suspended face-to-face classes due to the intense heat brought by El Niño.

The local government units that issued executive orders suspending the in-person classes are the following:

• General Santos City (suspension of in-person classes in all levels in public and private schools from April 2- 5, 2024.
• Polomolok, South Cotabato (suspension of afternoon in-person classes in public and private schools from April 2-15, 2024)
• Tantangan, South Cotabato (suspension of afternoon in-person classes from April 1-15, 2024)
• Sultan Kudarat (suspension of face-to-face classes from April 1-15, 2024)

In Zamboanga City, the Buenavista Integrated School has already implemented distance learning while some in-person classes are being done by schedule since March.

The Department of Education (DepEd) is also assessing the plan of Putik Central School in Barangay Putik to implement distance learning.

DepEd continues to monitor the schools, especially ventilation in classrooms and availability of drinking water. Schools may also get rid of unnecessary things in the classroom to ensure comfort and convenience.

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte said DepEd has already issued an order for schools to implement blended learning due to the hot weather.

“Meron na po tayong order sa Department of Education na pwedeng mag switch to blended learning ang ating mga paaralan kung meron silang nakikita na ibat-ibang problema kasama na ang mainit na panahon pwede mag switch to blended learning,” Duterte said.

Under the DepEd Order No.37, schools may implement alternative learning systems such as modular distance learning, performance tasks, projects, and online classes.