With temperatures rising, concerned government agencies have turned their attention to helping students, travelers and public servants, among others, cope with the season’s heat wave.
On Thursday, the Department of Education (DepEd) clarified there is no automatic suspension of classes due to extreme heat, but local government units (LGUs) may declare suspensions in affected areas.
“We are deeply concerned about our learners’ and teachers’ safety. We are closely coordinating with our field offices to assess the situation in schools and determine the best course of action given the extreme heat,” said Education Secretary Juan Edgardo ‘Sonny’ Angara.
To ensure learning continues safely, DepEd is rolling out interventions, including flexible learning arrangements, improved ventilation in classrooms, and increased access to drinking water in schools.
DepEd advised schools to adjust class schedules, with morning sessions running from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., asynchronous learning from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and afternoon classes resuming from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Angara said additional hydration and rest breaks are recommended, especially for schools without air conditioning, while outdoor activities during peak heat hours are being limited.
For its part, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) assured the public that it covers hospitalizations for heat-related illnesses as the country experiences rising temperatures.
“Members and their dependents admitted to any PhilHealth-accredited health facilities due to heat stroke or heat exhaustion are entitled to a benefit package of P12,675,” said Dr. Edwin Mercado, President and CEO of PhilHealth.
“In cases of heat fatigue requiring hospitalization, the benefit package is at P18,135,” he added.
PhilHealth also encourages members to take advantage of the Konsulta Package, which provides free consultations and preventive care to detect early symptoms of heat-related illnesses.
As this developed, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) said it is implementing measures to enhance passenger comfort and well-being during this hot season in coordination with its airport authorities.
“We are coordinating with our Area Managers for regular airport monitoring as directed by (Transportation) Secretary Vince Dizon. They are mandated to provide assistance to passengers, especially at airports experiencing the highest temperatures,” said CAAP Director General Raul del Rosario.
The Malasakit Help Desk (medical assistance) is also available for air travelers affected by the high temperatures.
“Our facilities are equipped with proper ventilation to minimize discomfort and health concerns before and after travel,” Del Rosario added.
Even the Philippine National Police (PNP) advised its patrolling officers to take precautions against extreme heat, warning of potential health risks such as heat stroke, heart attacks, and heat exhaustion.
PNP spokesperson and Central Luzon Director Brigadier General Jean Fajardo emphasized the importance of hydration and seeking shade when necessary.
“If your job is a patrol officer and your duty is 12 hours, you don’t have to go there for 12 hours in the heat. You can also take shelter from time to time,” she said.
The PNP Highway Patrol Group (HPG) is considering reinstating the use of short pants for officers to provide relief from the heat.
HPG spokesperson Police Lt. Nadame Malang said they are reviewing uniform options to ensure officers remain comfortable while on duty.
Meanwhile, Malacañang said the government is taking measures to ensure a stable water supply ahead of the dry season, with officials closely monitoring reservoir levels.
In a press briefing on Thursday, Presidential Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro said water supply remains stable but assured the public that the government will promptly address potential shortages during the dry season.
“As of now, our water supply remains significant despite the change in the weather condition,” Castro said in a mixture of Filipino and English.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: “DepEd: Heat-related class suspensions within LGUs discretion”