By Chris V. Panganiban
Inquirer Mindanao
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur — The scorching heat gripping parts of the Caraga Region has forced schools and local governments to rethink classroom routines as heat index levels climbed to dangerous levels, prompting shortened class hours, suspension of face-to-face sessions, and the adoption of alternative learning arrangements.
With heat indices reaching 42°C to 46°Cin several areas, authorities moved to protect learners, teachers, and school personnel from possible heat-related illnesses while ensuring that education continues despite the extreme weather conditions, according to reports from the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-Caraga.
The affected areas included Butuan City in Agusan del Norte, communities in Surigao del Sur, and other parts of Caraga, where temperatures combined with high humidity created conditions considered dangerous for prolonged outdoor exposure.
In Butuan City, officials monitored heat index levels reaching around 45°C, prompting schools and residents to observe precautionary measures against heat stress.
In Surigao del Sur, the heat forced several local governments to adjust school operations. Tandag City recorded a heat index of about 46°C, leading officials to shorten face-to-face classes and move succeeding learning activities to alternative delivery modes.
Other areas, including Bislig City and nearby municipalities, also modified school schedules as temperatures rose. Some schools limited classroom hours, while others shifted afternoon activities to modular or blended learning arrangements.
The Philippine News Agency (PNA) reported that several local government units in Surigao del Sur adjusted school schedules following high heat index readings, allowing learners to attend classes during cooler morning hours while reducing exposure during the hottest parts of the day.
In Agusan del Sur, the Schools Division Office issued an institutional health advisory directing schools to strengthen heat protection measures and prepare alternative learning arrangements during periods of extreme heat.
Under the advisory, face-to-face classes may transition to Modular Distance Learning or online classes once local government officials suspend classes due to dangerous weather conditions. School heads were also authorized to adjust school operations based on local weather conditions and the actual situation in their respective schools.
To limit travel and outdoor exposure, schools were instructed to prioritize the digital distribution of Self-Learning Modules, worksheets, and activity sheets through online communication platforms.
For families requiring printed learning materials, schools were advised to implement staggered distribution schedules during cooler periods, particularly from 6:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Learners were discouraged from personally collecting or returning modules during heat-related class suspensions, with parents or guardians advised to handle these transactions.
Inside classrooms, schools were directed to improve ventilation, provide regular hydration breaks, maintain accessible drinking water stations, and allow appropriate adjustments in school attire when necessary.
Outdoor activities, including sports training, physical education classes, and other activities requiring prolonged sun exposure, were discouraged between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., when heat risks are highest.
School officials and health personnel were also reminded to watch for signs of heat exhaustion, including dizziness, fainting, excessive sweating, and rapid pulse. Learners or personnel showing symptoms must immediately be transferred to cooler areas, provided first-aid measures, and referred for medical assistance when needed.
Despite the extreme heat, education officials emphasized that learning must continue through safer and more flexible approaches. The coordinated response of local governments, DepEd offices, and schools aims to balance learning continuity with the protection of the school community.
As climate-related challenges continue to affect Caraga, authorities urged residents to remain alert, stay hydrated, and follow safety advisories to prevent heat-related emergencies.
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