Iloilo City:A total of 122 public schools across 14 local government units (LGUs) in Western Visayas have suspended in-person classes due to a high heat index, impacting 113,022 learners, as reported by the Department of Education (DepEd).
According to Philippines News Agency, Iloilo City has the most affected learners, numbering 73,127, followed by Roxas City with 31,685, and other areas in Capiz with 8,210. The decision to suspend classes follows weather forecasts predicting heat index levels of 43 degrees Celsius in Iloilo City, 42 degrees in Roxas City, and 40 degrees in Mambusao, Capiz, and Dumangas, Iloilo.
The DepEd Western Visayas, through information officer Hernani Escullar Jr., referenced DepEd Memorandum No. 64, series of 2026, which provides a framework for anticipatory actions and protective measures in response to the expected Super El Niño. The memorandum outlines a 4H framework for guiding schools in selecting appropriate learning delivery modes based on heat conditions.
The framework categorizes heat conditions into four levels Hayo (normal conditions) with a heat index below 27 degrees Celsius, Hinay (caution) at 27 to 32 degrees, Hinga (extreme caution) at 33 to 41 degrees, and Hinto (danger) above 42 degrees. During Hayo conditions, regular in-person classes with hydration breaks are advised. Hinay levels call for shortened class hours or flexible and hybrid learning arrangements. Hinga necessitates the suspension of in-person classes and lighter home-based tasks, along with health monitoring. At the Hinto level, all physical and home-based academic activities must be suspended.
Escullar emphasized that teachers and school heads are guided by these measures to ensure the well-being of learners and personnel. Schools have the autonomy to switch to alternative delivery modes even without an LGU declaration, provided they inform their respective schools division superintendent.
Private schools are encouraged to adopt these guidelines where applicable, in line with existing laws and DepEd regulations. Escullar noted that some private schools possess adequate facilities to shield learners from extreme heat. State universities and colleges offering basic education are guided by the Commission on Higher Education, while DepEd will adhere to relevant guidelines issued by local chief executives under their general welfare powers.
Escullar reiterated that protecting the health and safety of learners and teachers is the department's priority, and alternative learning arrangements aim to ensure the continuity of education.
