AS MORE schools suspend face-to-face classes due to extreme heat, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian has emphasized the need for school principals and local government units to proactively shift to alternative delivery modes of learning.

He warned that high temperatures will be a recurring issue and urged education officials to stay alert and responsive to ensure students’ safety while maintaining learning continuity.

Gatchalian noted that rising temperatures will continue to disrupt traditional classroom settings, making it essential to establish clear guidelines for transitioning to remote learning.

“School principals and local government units need to be alert and responsive when transitioning to remote learning. This will help ensure we continue achieving learning outcomes while prioritizing learners’ safety,” he stated.

To address these challenges, the senator stressed the urgency of accelerating the digital transformation of the basic education sector.

He pointed out that providing students and teachers with adequate digital tools and internet access is crucial to maintaining education standards during extreme weather conditions.

“Habang tinitiyak natin ang kaligtasan ng ating mga mag-aaral, mahalaga ding tiyakin na patuloy silang natututo,” he added.

Many schools have already shifted to online learning or other alternative modes to prevent heat-related illnesses among students.

However, challenges such as limited internet connectivity, lack of digital devices, and varying levels of readiness among schools continue to persist.

Gatchalian reiterated the need for long-term solutions to address these gaps.

The Department of Education has encouraged schools to adopt flexible learning arrangements, including modular learning and online classes, depending on the resources available in their communities.

Gatchalian called for stronger government support to improve digital infrastructure, particularly in rural areas where access to technology remains limited.

The senator reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for policies that enhance the education sector’s resilience amid climate challenges.

He urged both national and local governments to invest in long-term solutions that will ensure Filipino students can continue learning safely, regardless of environmental conditions.