Face-to-face classes in Manila suspended until Friday

MANILA – The suspension of face-to-face classes in the city of Manila has been extended until April 26 by Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan.

The Manila Public Information Office announced the extension of the class suspension on its Facebook page on Wednesday.

"Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan declares suspension of face-to-face classes for public and private schools in all levels for Thursday and Friday, April 25-26, 2024," the announcement read.

Lacuna-Pangan said this was due to the forecast danger heat index level of 44°C, according to the Manila Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (MDRRMO).

Meanwhile, schools have been advised to shift to asynchronous classes.

On Tuesday, face-to-face classes in the city were suspended for Wednesday, April 24, due to the forecast danger heat index level of 43°C.

As of 1:30 pm on Wednesday, the MDRRMO said the heat index has reached 44°C, which is the highest heat index recorded in Manila for this year.

"Sa ganitong condition, posibleng makaranas ng heat cramps, at heat exhaustion ang taong nakabilad sa initan. Para ito ay maiwasan ay ugaliing uminom ng maraming tubig. Kung hindi maiiwasang mabilad sa araw ay ugaliin namang magpahinga at sumilong kada 30 minutes upang mabigyan ng oras ang katawan na bumaba ang temperatura (In this situation, heat cramps and heat exhaustion may be experienced by those who are exposed to the sun. To avoid this, drink plenty of water. If sun exposure cannot be avoided, try to go under the shades every 30 minutes to let the body temperature go down)," MDRRMO said.

The Department of Education earlier announced that its school division superintendents as well as Metro Manila mayors have been authorized to adjust class schedules in their jurisdiction or suspend classes in case of extreme heat. (PNA)