Marikina, Makati adjust classes as Metro Manila sizzles

MANILA, Philippines — At least two cities in Metro Manila adjusted classes to protect students as temperatures continue to rise to dangerous levels.

Public and private schools in Marikina City would shift to asynchronous classes tomorrow, Mayor Marcelino Teodoro said yesterday.

Teodoro suspended in-person classes tomorrow in response to a recent advisory from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) regarding the escalating heat index in the country.

“I have taken a proactive step to safeguard the well-being of our students and educators,” he said in a statement.

Teodoro reached the decision based on consultations with the Department of Education (DepEd)’s Marikina school division office, school heads and parents.

The suspension of face-to-face classes also gave students an opportunity to spend more time with their family as Tuesday and Wednesday were declared as holidays by the government.

“By prioritizing the well-being of our students and educators during these challenging weather conditions, we aim to create a conducive learning environment for our youth,” Teodoro said.

The DepEd earlier announced that schools may suspend in-person classes to protect students from the extreme heat.

Teodoro urged their constituents to remain hydrated and implement heat safety protocols.

“By fostering a culture of safety and preparedness, we can mitigate the risks associated with extreme heat and ensure the well-being of our communities,” he said.

Shorter hours

The city government of Makati, meanwhile, has shortened the class schedule of students.

In an advisory released on Friday, Makati announced that morning classes would be held from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. while afternoon classes would be held from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

The modified class hours will be in effect starting tomorrow.

“Everyone is also advised to wear comfortable and light-colored clothes in class and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated,” the advisory read.

PAGASA is forecasting that the heat index today and tomorrow would reach 40 degrees Celsius.

The state weather bureau earlier warned that at least five areas of the country are experiencing the “danger” level heat index of 42 degrees Celsius.