SENATOR Sherwin Gatchalian has called for proactive measures to balance student safety and learning continuity as extreme heat forces the suspension of in-person classes in various parts of the country.

While acknowledging concerns about potential learning losses, the senator emphasized that schools and local government units must be flexible in adjusting schedules and adopting alternative delivery modes.

Gatchalian stressed that suspending in-person classes due to extreme heat is not a one-time issue but a recurring challenge that needs long-term solutions.

He urged schools to ensure proper ventilation, install cooling systems, and provide adequate water and hydration stations to keep students safe while maintaining effective learning environments.

The senator also pointed out the importance of making the basic education sector more resilient to climate-related disruptions.

He highlighted the need for investments in climate-resilient infrastructure, which could help mitigate the effects of extreme weather on schools and students.

“We cannot afford a business-as-usual approach when it comes to ensuring the continuity of education amid worsening heat and other disasters,” he said.

Additionally, Gatchalian underscored the importance of accelerating digital transformation in education.

He encouraged the government to strengthen the integration of technology in learning, allowing students to continue their education remotely when in-person classes become unsafe due to extreme temperatures.

The lawmaker also called for better preparedness among educators and students in utilizing ADMs.

He stressed the need for comprehensive training programs to equip teachers with the skills necessary to effectively deliver lessons through online platforms, modular learning, and other alternative methods.