Several local government units (LGUs) in the Philippines have announced the suspension of face-to-face classes for Friday, April 26, 2024, citing high heat index levels as the primary reason. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) defines the heat index as the temperature perceived by the human body when relative humidity is factored in with the air temperature.
According to PAGASA’s forecast, 36 areas are expected to fall under the “danger category” on Friday due to the heat index. This classification indicates conditions where heat-related illnesses are more likely to occur, emphasizing the need for precautionary measures.
The Department of Education (DepEd) previously mentioned that some schools have shifted to alternative delivery modes, such as online and modular methods, amidst class suspensions. This proactive approach aims to ensure that learning continues despite the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions.
Here’s a breakdown of the class suspensions for Friday, April 26, 2024:
Metro Manila
- Malabon City: No face-to-face classes, all levels (public)
- Mandaluyong City: No face-to-face classes, preschool to senior high school (public and private)
- City of Manila: No face-to-face classes, all levels (public and private)
- Muntinlupa City: No face-to-face classes, preschool to senior high school (public)
- Navotas City: No face-to-face classes, all levels (public and private)
- Parañaque City: No face-to-face classes, all levels (public and private)
- Pasay City: No face-to-face classes, all levels (public and private)
- Pateros: No face-to-face classes, all levels (public and private)
Southern Luzon
Cavite province
- Bacoor City: No face-to-face classes, all levels (public and private)
- Carmona City: No face-to-face classes, all levels (public and private)
- General Trias City: No face-to-face classes, all levels (public and private)
- Imus City: No face-to-face classes, all levels (public and private)
- Kawit: No face-to-face classes, all levels (public and private)
- Noveleta: No face-to-face classes, all levels (public and private)
- Tanza: No face-to-face classes, preschool to senior high school (public)
- Trece Martires City: No face-to-face classes, all levels (public and private)
Laguna
- Alaminos: No face-to-face classes, all levels (public and private)
- Biñan City: No face-to-face classes, all levels (public and private)
- San Pedro City: No face-to-face classes, all levels (public and private) until April 27
Quezon province
- Catanauan: No face-to-face classes, all levels (public and private)
Cagayan Valley
- Tuguegarao City, Cagayan: No face-to-face classes for preschool to senior high school (public)
Central Luzon
- Bataan: No face-to-face classes, all levels (public and private)
Visayas
- Isabel, Leyte: No face-to-face classes, all levels (public and private)
Mindanao
- Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay: No face-to-face classes, all levels (public and private), until May 3
Private schools, according to Department of Education Order No. 37 series of 2022, have the discretion to decide on class suspensions provided they have adequate facilities to conduct onsite classes during extreme heat conditions.
LGUs have advised the public to stay hydrated and take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related emergencies. Stay tuned for updates on further class suspensions across the country.