Photo from Philippine Star

By Lia Atienza

Schools nationwide suspended face-to-face classes amidst the rising heat index forecasted by the Philippine Atmospherical, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on the week of March 3, 2025. 

Leading up to the dry season in the country, the heat index in various provinces, including Metro Manila, reached up to 42 to 51 degrees Celsius, which is classified as a “danger” level heat index according to PAGASA. 

Suspension of face-to-face classes was announced starting on Monday, March 3, with eight out of 16 cities in Metro Manila advising schools to postpone classes due to the extreme heat. 

Manila City Mayor Honey Lacuna shared on her Facebook page, “Based on the recommendation of Manila DRRM [Disaster Risk Reduction Management] Council, afternoon classes in all levels in public and private schools are suspended on Monday, March 3, 2025.” 

The Department of Education (DepEd) addressed the heat wave on Wednesday, March 5, advising schools to take preventive measures—adjusting schedules, adopting alternative class modalities, and improving classroom ventilation—to ensure students’ and teachers’ safety during school hours. 

“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,” DepEd Secretary Angara said.

Response from the Department of Health

In response to the extreme heat, the Department of Health (DOH) advised residents to be cautious of the rising temperature and to stay updated on the weather forecast. 

Furthermore, the department also advised people to take shelter, especially during the sun’s peak, to stay hydrated, and to seek medical help when needed. 

“Ang matagal na pagkakalantad sa init ay nagpapataas ng posibilidad ng heat stroke, isang seryosong kondisyon na may pagkawala ng malay, pagkalito, o kaya ay mga seizure/kombulsyon, na maaaring nakamamatay kung hindi ginagamot,” said DOH.

ASHS Protocols

Signed by Principal Rosanna Borja, the Ateneo Senior High School (ASHS) released protocols on Tuesdays, March 4 and March 11, addressing the rising heat index in the country. 

The protocol states that the school will shift to online classes if PAGASA reports a danger level heat index of 42 degrees Celsius. 

Furthermore, outdoor activities held under the heat of the sun—PE activities, sports club practices, and games—will be suspended temporarily, and students will also be dismissed earlier during major school events held on days with heat indices of 42 degrees or higher, ensuring students’ safety from the heat. 

Air-conditioned rooms at the ASHS Building— rooms 118, 212, and 312— as well as the Music Room, Makerspace, and Multipurpose Room 1 at the Formation and Learning Center (FLC) will be available to the students during break times.

Additional fans may also be brought to the classrooms, upon proper submission of forms to the Central Facilities Management Office (CFMO).  

Students are encouraged to bring personal water bottles or containers as additional water dispensers will be available in both the academic building and the FLC, for easier access to drinking water.

Lastly, adjustments have been made to the school uniform on regular and PE days, allowing students to wear alternatives to the school pants and polo shirt, ensuring comfort and safety amidst the summer season while also reminding the students to follow the dress code and be cautious of the ongoing dengue alert in the city.