DepEd: 122 schools in Western Visayas suspend face-to-face classes amid extreme heat

Face-to-face classes in 122 public schools across 14 local government units in Western Visayas were suspended after forecasts showed heat index levels reaching dangerous levels, affecting 113,022 learners, according to the Department of Education (DepEd).

The affected schools were located in areas expected to experience heat index readings of up to 43 degrees Celsius in Iloilo City, 42 degrees in Roxas City, and 40 degrees in Mambusao, Capiz, and Dumangas, Iloilo. Iloilo City accounted for the largest number of affected students at 73,127, followed by Roxas City with 31,685 and other parts of Capiz with 8,210.

DepEd Western Visayas said schools are guided by the agency's "4H" framework under Memorandum No. 64, series of 2026, which outlines response measures for extreme heat associated with the expected Super El Niño. Depending on the heat index level, schools may shorten class hours, adopt hybrid learning arrangements, or suspend in-person classes.

Under the guidelines, schools may shift to alternative learning modes even without a declaration from local government units, provided they notify their respective Schools Division Superintendent.

DepEd said the policy is intended to protect the health and safety of learners and school personnel while ensuring that classes continue through alternative learning arrangements when necessary.

Related to the extreme heat affecting schools, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday signed Executive Order No. 130, which establishes a framework for the suspension and resumption of classes, school activities, and onsite work in educational institutions and learning centers during natural and human-induced hazards.