Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas may extend the suspension of face-to-face classes from pre-school to senior high both in public and private schools depending on the heat index forecast.
Treñas, through Executive Order (EO) No. 047 – 2024 issued March 31, declared the suspension of classes from April 1 to 2, 2024, after the Department of Science and Technology -Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAG-ASA) forecasted a heat index of 41 degrees Celsius and 42 degrees Celsius, respectively.
“Resumption of face-to-face classes will proceed once the heat index is below 40.”
“In the event that in the succeeding days, forecasted heat index in Iloilo City be 40 degrees Celsius or above, face-to-face classes will continue to be suspended. Resumption of face-to-face classes will proceed once the heat index is below 40,” the EO read.
The state weather bureau earlier warned that the heat index could reach the “danger” level which ranged between 42 and 51 degrees Celsius.
“The health of students is the primary concern since most of the classrooms, especially in public schools, are not well-ventilated.”
During a recent press conference, the mayor emphasized that the health of students is the primary concern since most of the classrooms, especially in public schools, are not well-ventilated.
Following the declaration of suspension of face-to-face classes, the Department of Education (DepEd) has directed elementary and secondary schools to shift to alternative modes of learning, such as modular and online classes in case of suspension of face-to-face classes due to intense heat.
Learners are likewise advised to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water; stay indoors especially during the hottest part of the day; wear lightweight, breathable clothing; and avoid strenuous activities during peak heat hours.
Meanwhile, as to the conduct of the National Achievement Test (NAT) which has been scheduled April 2, Treñas said it will depend on DepEd to proceed with it or not.
