As the Philippines braces for the possible effects of a potentially very strong El Niño phenomenon, protecting students from extreme heat and water shortages is becoming a major challenge for the country's education sector.
The Department of Education (DepEd) is strengthening its preparedness measures for School Year 2026–2027, recognizing that prolonged exposure to high temperatures can put learners and teachers at risk of heat-related illnesses, dehydration, and other health complications.
In response, DepEd has introduced the 4H Framework: Hayo, Hinay, Hinga, and Hinto, under DepEd Memorandum No. 64, series of 2026, to guide schools in adjusting class schedules and learning arrangements based on prevailing heat conditions.
The framework establishes four levels of response:
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Hayo (Go): When the heat index is below 27°C, face-to-face classes may continue with precautionary measures, including scheduled hydration breaks and proper classroom ventilation.
Hinay (Slow Down): At 27°C to 32°C, schools may shorten class hours or implement hybrid and flexible learning arrangements to minimize exposure to heat.
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Hinga (Pause): At 33°C to 41°C, in-person classes are suspended, with lighter home-based learning activities and health monitoring prioritized.
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Hinto (Stop): When the heat index reaches 42°C and above, both physical and home-based academic activities are suspended to protect learners and school personnel.
Under the guidelines, school administrators are also directed to monitor classroom temperature and humidity at designated times, assess ventilation, ensure access to clean drinking water, and prepare alternative learning materials in anticipation of possible class disruptions.
Beyond class suspensions, DepEd is also strengthening water conservation and school feeding programs to ensure that students continue receiving essential services despite prolonged dry conditions. Schools are expected to coordinate with local government units and water service providers to maintain sufficient water supplies and prepare contingency food provisions.
The urgency of these measures is already evident in several parts of the country. On November 4, DepEd reported that 122 public schools across 14 local government units in Western Visayas suspended in-person classes due to high heat index levels, affecting approximately 113,022 learners.
While these interventions provide schools with a framework for responding to extreme weather conditions, the challenge goes beyond deciding whether classes should continue or be suspended.
The safety of students must remain more important than maintaining regular classroom schedules. Schools need adequate drinking water, properly ventilated classrooms, accessible health facilities, and reliable alternative learning arrangements to ensure that no learner is forced to choose between their education and their well-being.
Ultimately, preparing for El Niño should not be limited to emergency class suspensions. It must involve sustained investments in climate-resilient school infrastructure, stronger disaster preparedness, and coordinated action among DepEd, local governments, parents, and communities.
As temperatures continue to rise, ensuring learning continuity should never come at the expense of children's health and safety.
