By Connie Calipay
LEGAZPI CITY – Four local government units (LGUs) in Albay province issued directives on Tuesday, instructing both public and private schools within their jurisdictions to implement modified face-to-face (F2F) class schedules due to the intense heat prevalent in the country, particularly during the afternoon.
The LGUs involved are Libon, Polangui, Camalig, and Guinobatan.
Camalig Mayor and Chairperson of the Municipal Risk Reduction and Management Council, Carlos Irwin Baldo Jr., recommended schools to utilize modular learning methods for afternoon classes.
Schools will hold early sessions from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. to minimize the exposure of students and teachers to potentially hazardous and hot temperatures. Afternoon classes will be held remotely via modular learning, enabling students to continue their education from the safety of their homes, the advisory from the mayor’s office read.
Baldo said teachers will provide learning materials and instructions for students to complete independently.
“Pupils are not required to wear school uniforms. They are, however, advised to wear comfortable clothing,” he said.
Polangui Mayor Raymond Adrian Salceda also directed all schools to implement a half-day face-to-face classes and asynchronous classes in the afternoon.
He also encouraged schools to prioritize safety measures during face-to-face classes to prevent heat-related illnesses caused by the high heat index.
“Schools should provide access to drinking water at schools through water bottles, fountains, or any other means. Ensure that there is adequate ventilation in the classrooms. Implement protocols for heat stroke and high blood pressure. Encourage the wearing of comfortable but appropriate school attire. Ensure that there is a school nurse readily available,” the advisory issued by the mayor’s office said.
In Guinobatan and Libon, the chief executives directed all schools to implement contingency plans for modular or online classes as part of the preparedness action to minimize the impact of heat. (PNA)
