THE DEPARTMENT of the Interior and Local Government underscored that the safety and welfare of students and school personnel remain its top priority, following concerns over class suspensions during adverse weather conditions.

The agency stressed that advisories on suspending classes are meant to mitigate risks, safeguard local communities, and allow families and schools to make timely decisions.

“These announcements are not intended to disrupt learning but to protect the most vulnerable during emergencies,” the DILG said in an official statement.

The agency also ssid it recognizes that private schools are not privy to the latest weather forecast models of the National Science Council.

“The best compromise is to allow flexibility to shift to online classes whenever the government announces a suspension.”

It also emphasized that the recommendations on class suspensions are made by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, based on the latest data and hazard monitoring.

“The role of the DILG and the SILG is to communicate and implement these recommendations in coordination with local governments.”

The Department likewise acknowledges the efforts of schools and LGUs to adopt flexible learning modalities that sustain education even during disruptions.