Manila: The Department of Education (DepEd) announced its intention to submit a proposed Executive Order (EO) aimed at modernizing the protocols for class suspensions and resumptions in basic education. This move follows the approval of the proposal by the Social Development Committee (SDC) Cabinet Cluster, subsequent to a presentation by DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara.
According to Philippines News Agency, Secretary Angara emphasized that the proposal aims to maintain learning continuity through a more granular approach to both suspension and resumption of classes. "Under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s leadership, we are reframing our approach: we are not merely suspending classes; we are safeguarding learning continuity," Angara stated. From June 8 to August 31, DepEd recorded up to 40 days of instructional loss due to weather-related suspensions, nearing the 53 days reported for the 2023-2024 school year.
The proposed EO outlines three decision-making mechanisms for site-specific decisions, which require coordination with local government units. These include automatic class suspensions based on national technical thresholds, localized suspensions determined by local chief executives, and granular suspensions and resumptions. The policy aims to provide a comprehensive and decentralized framework for managing in-person class suspensions and resumptions, balancing safety and learning continuity.
Angara highlighted the importance of safety for students, teachers, and school staff when hazards occur, stating that safety is "non-negotiable." He also noted the economic implications of unnecessary classroom closures, which affect learners' potential and long-term economic productivity. The proposal expands hazard coverage beyond typhoons to include heavy rainfall, flooding, earthquakes, storm surges, poor air quality, volcanic smog, volcanic hazards, and extreme heat.
The policy retains the authority for school-level suspensions based on site-specific assessments and requires concurrence from the Schools Division Superintendent.
