DepEd should have long-term plan to better cope with heat 鈥� solon
Department of Education Central office in Pasig City—INQUIRER PHOTO / NINO JESUS ORBETA
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) should have a long-term plan to better cope with the impact of extreme heat in the country as summer looms, according to Kabataan party-list Rep. Raoul Manuel.
During the House committee on basic education and culture’s hearing on Thursday, Manuel said DepEd should anticipate heat-related issues every year, particularly every March and April.
READ: DepEd mulls changing class skeds to better cope with heat
“The agency should have a long-term plan since we expect this to be an issue every year,” he added.
DepEd – National Capital Region Assistant Director Cristito Eco said the agency usually implements online classes or modular learning amid extreme temperatures.
But Manuel pointed out that this is only a short-term term solution to the problem.
“I can’t imagine that this will still be our response in five to 10 years from now. Does this mean that we will respond like this every March and April?” he asked.
Earlier, the DepEd said it is eyeing to change class schedules or shift to remote learning to spare students from extreme heat.
DepEd chief Sonny Angara also proposed additional water and rest breaks and the provision of more electric fans in schools to ensure the safety of students, teachers, and school staff.
