All of a sudden, the days have turned significantly warmer. Classes in some cities in Metro Manila were suspended or were ordered to shift to online mode as the heat index reached 46 degrees Celsius on Monday.
Heat index is also known as apparent temperature, which measures the discomfort felt by individuals as a result of the actual temperature and humidity in the air.
An index between 42 degrees and 51 degrees Celsius falls under the “danger” level. Scientists say heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely in this scenario and heatstroke is probable with continued exposure.
The next lower range, 33 degrees to 41 degrees, falls under “extreme caution” where continued activity could lead to heatstroke, according to PAGASA.
The temperature changes were only noted beginning this weekend but already some teachers groups are calling on the government to standardize class suspension policies in the event of dangerous heat warnings.
The Department of Education’s Order 22, released last year, governs the policies for suspension of classes due to several reasons. The order emphasizes the need to balance the protection of students and teachers with learning continuity and the minimization of disruptions.
The guidelines offered by Order 22 do not provide for automatic class suspensions due to extreme heat conditions, leaving the discretion to individual local chief executives. “However, in the case of unbearable heat, the LCE may still exercise its authority to facilitate localized class suspensions based on the situation in their localities,” the order said.
“Unbearable heat,” of course, may vary depending on who is evaluating the situation or making the decision, and the proximity and interconnectedness of LGUs in Metro Manila makes it possible that some students and teachers attend school in one area while living in another LGU.
This piecemeal approach to heat-related class suspensions could bring inconsistencies and expose students and teachers to risk, said the Metro Manila chapter of Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC). “A blanket suspension based on a unified regional scheme would eliminate disparities in implementation and ensure a uniform response that prioritizes everyone’s safety,” the group said. It’s a valid concern.
The pandemic taught us that in the event of emergencies, there are other modes of learning that could be used to ensure that children’s education does not stop. While traditional methods are decidedly more favorable and conducive to learning, these other approaches will be helpful under specific circumstances. After all, it is them or nothing, and studies have shown that class suspensions have brought disruptions that have compromised the quality of our students’ learning.
This early, then, the policies must be reviewed and clarified so that there is less confusion the next time the heat index rises again. It is only the beginning of March and the coming summer season will certainly cause not only hot days, but health issues, disruption, and confusion.
