Several local government units (LGUs) have suspended face-to-face classes for Friday, March 7, 2025, due to extreme heat. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has warned of high temperatures, prompting preventive measures to ensure student safety.
Areas with Class Suspensions:
Metro Manila:
- City of Manila – No afternoon face-to-face classes, Kinder to Senior High School (public schools only).
Luzon:
- Abra Province – No face-to-face classes, at all levels (public and private schools).
- Bulacan:
- Malolos – No face-to-face classes, at all levels (public and private schools).
- Bulakan – No face-to-face classes, at all levels (public and private schools).
- Calumpit – No face-to-face classes, at all levels (public and private schools).
- Cavite:
- Rosario – No face-to-face classes, at all levels (public and private schools).
- Laguna:
- Bay – No face-to-face classes, at all levels (public and private schools).
- Calauan – There are no face-to-face classes at all levels (public and private schools).
- Los Baños – No face-to-face classes, at all levels (public and private schools).
- Santa Cruz – No face-to-face classes, at all levels (public and private schools).
- Pagsanjan – No face-to-face classes, at all levels (public and private schools).
- Occidental Mindoro:
- San Jose – No face-to-face classes, at all levels (public and private schools).
- Zambales:
- San Narciso – No face-to-face classes, at all levels (public and private schools).
- Santa Cruz – No face-to-face classes, at all levels (public and private schools).
- Botolan – No face-to-face classes, at all levels (public and private schools).
- Masinloc – No face-to-face classes, at all levels (public and private schools).
Visayas:
- Negros Occidental:
- Himamaylan – No face-to-face classes, at all levels (public and private schools).
- Talisay – No face-to-face classes, preschool to Senior High School (public schools only).
PAGASA Weather Forecast and Heat Index:
On Thursday, PAGASA reported that while the northeast monsoon may return to extreme Northern Luzon, the heat index will continue to rise across various parts of the country due to the onset of the dry season. The heat index is expected to reach 42 degrees Celsius in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, on Thursday and Friday, while similar temperatures are projected for Iba, Zambales, on Friday.
Heat Index Risk Categories:
- Extreme Caution: 33°C – 41°C
- Danger: 42°C – 51°C
PAGASA warns that prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
Safety Precautions:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
- Stay indoors in cool, shaded, or air-conditioned areas.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing.
For further updates, students and parents are advised to monitor announcements from their local government units and PAGASA.