Press Release - Gatchalian: Senate panel to discuss effects of extreme heat on basic education classes

The Senate Committee on Basic Education will conduct a hearing on April 30 to discuss the effect of extreme heat in the conduct of classes and the shift to Alternative Delivery Modes (ADMs), its chairperson Senator Win Gatchalian said.

Gatchalian recalled that classes in several areas have been suspended because of the onset of extreme heat. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) previously warned of possible extreme danger heat index in some areas because of El Niño or a temperature of 52°Celsius and above.

The Department of Education (DepEd) also previously reiterated that in cases of emergencies or calamities, including extreme heat, principals may suspend in-person classes and implement blended learning. Under DepEd Order No. 037 s. 2022, modular distance learning, performance tasks, projects, or make-up classes shall be implemented when classes are canceled or suspended.

Gatchalian added that while schools have the option to implement remote learning, the shift to ADMs also poses challenges. He cited the lack of internet access in some households and the difficulties hounding parents in supporting their children in a remote learning setup.

"May mga magulang na hindi masyadong sang-ayon sa online or blended learning dahil hindi natututo ang kanilang anak at mismong mga magulang din ang sumasagot sa mga textbook o workbook nila. Lumalabas na mas pabor pa rin ang maraming magulang sa face-to-face classes. Gayunpaman, maraming mga nag-suspend ng klase nitong mga nakaraang araw dahil sa sobrang init ng panahon. Ang lahat ng 'yan ay babalansehin natin," said Gatchalian.

Though DepEd already started the transition to bring back the school opening to June, Gatchalian urged the agency anew to study the possibility of having a shorter transition period.

Epekto ng matinding init sa mga klase tatalakayin sa Senado --Gatchalian

Nakatakdang magsagawa ang Senate Committee on Basic Education ng pagdinig sa Abril 30 upang talakayin ang epekto ng matinding init sa mga klase at sa pagpapatupad ng Alternative Delivery Modes (ADMs), ayon kay Senador Win Gatchalian.

Binalikan ni Gatchalian ang mga insidente kung saan