THE SENATE Committee on Basic Education is set to conduct a hearing this Tuesday, April 30, to discuss the effects of extreme heat in the conduct of classes and the shift to Alternative Delivery Modes.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian recalled that classes in several areas have been suspended because of the onset of extreme heat.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration previously warned of possible extreme danger heat index in some areas because of El Niño or a temperature of 52°Celsius and above.

The Department of Education also previously reiterated that in cases of emergencies or calamities, including extreme heat, principals may suspend in-person classes and implement blended learning.

Under DepEd Order No. 037 s. 2022, modular distance learning, performance tasks, projects, or make-up classes shall be implemented when classes are canceled or suspended.

Gatchalian added that while schools have the option to implement remote learning, the shift to ADMs also poses challenges.

He cited the lack of internet access in some households and the difficulties hounding parents in supporting their children in a remote learning setup.

“May mga magulang na hindi masyadong sang-ayon sa online or blended learning dahil hindi natututo ang kanilang anak at mismong mga magulang din ang sumasagot sa mga textbook o workbook nila. Lumalabas na mas pabor pa rin ang maraming magulang sa face-to-face classes. Gayunpaman, maraming mga nag-suspend ng klase nitong mga nakaraang araw dahil sa sobrang init ng panahon. Ang lahat ng ‘yan ay babalansehin natin,” said Gatchalian.

Though DepEd already started the transition to bring back the school opening to June, Gatchalian urged the agency anew to study the possibility of having a shorter transition period.