EXTREME HEAT. Two women use an umbrella while crossing the road to protect themselves from the sun's extreme heat in Legazpi City, Albay on Tuesday (April 2, 2024). At least four local government units in the province issued advisories directing public and private schools in their towns to implement adjusted face-to-face class schedules and adopt modular learning to the afternoon classes due to the extreme heat. (Photo by Connie Calipay)
LEGAZPI CITY – Four local government units (LGUs) in Albay province issued advisories on Tuesday directing public and private schools in their towns to implement adjusted face-to-face (F2F) class schedules amid the extreme heat being experienced in the country, especially in the afternoon.
These LGUs are Libon, Polangui, Camalig, and Guinobatan.
Camalig Mayor and Municipal Risk Reduction and Management Council chair Carlos Irwin Baldo Jr. advised schools to adopt modular learning for the afternoon classes.
Schools will hold early sessions from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. to minimize the exposure of students and teachers to potentially hazardous and hot temperatures. Afternoon classes will be held remotely via modular learning, enabling students to continue their education from the safety of their homes, the advisory from the mayor's office read.
Baldo said teachers will provide learning materials and instructions for students to complete independently.
"Pupils are not required to wear school uniforms. They are, however, advised to wear comfortable clothing," he said.
Polangui Mayor Raymond Adrian Salceda also directed all schools to implement a half-day face-to-face classes and asynchronous classes in the afternoon.
He also encouraged schools to prioritize safety measures during face-to-face classes to prevent heat-related illnesses caused by the high heat index.
"Schools should provide access to drinking water at schools through water bottles, fountains, or any other means. Ensure that there is adequate ventilation in the classrooms. Implement protocols for heat stroke and high blood pressure. Encourage the wearing of comfortable but appropriate school attire. Ensure that there is a school nurse readily available," the advisory issued by the mayor's office said.
In Guinobatan and Libon, the chief executives directed all schools to implement contingency plans for modular or online classes as part of the preparedness action to minimize the impact of heat. (PNA)
