THE DEPARTMENT of Education reaffirmed its respect for the authority of local government units to suspend classes when public safety is at risk but emphasized that such decisions must be made with careful consideration.

The agency called for balanced and prudent decision-making that safeguards both safety and the continuity of education.

DepEd also reminded that while prioritizing the safety of learners and teachers is essential, prolonged class suspensions can hinder students’ learning progress and overall development.

“[T]his responsibility must be exercised with balance and prudence. While caution is important, extended suspensions can disrupt learning and affect students’ development,” DepEd said.

To minimize learning disruptions, the department said it will coordinate with Schools Division Offices to implement alternative delivery modes for affected learners.

DepEd assured that learning continuity will remain a top priority.

It also encouraged LGUs to regularly reassess the necessity of suspensions to determine whether conditions still warrant the continued cancellation of classes.