The Department of Education (DepEd) has announced updated guidelines for class and work suspensions during disasters and emergencies, aiming to reduce the number of lost school days. DepEd Order (DO) 22, a revision of DO 37 from 2022, adjusts suspension protocols based on Tropical Cyclone Wind Signals (TCWS), rainfall warnings, and earthquake intensity.
Key Changes:
- TCWS 1: Only Kindergarten classes in affected areas are automatically suspended. (Previously, this applied to all levels up to Grade 12 and the Alternative Learning System.)
- TCWS 2: Face-to-face classes for Kindergarten to Grade 10 are suspended, but schools must implement alternative learning methods like modular distance learning, performance tasks, or make-up classes.
- TCWS 3 and above: Automatic suspension of classes and work at all levels in the affected area.
- Heavy Rainfall and Flood: Suspensions depend on PAGASA's Rainfall Warning signals. Local chief executives decide on suspensions for Yellow Warnings, while Orange and Red Warnings trigger automatic suspensions for Kindergarten to Grade 12 and ALS.
- Earthquakes: Local chief executives decide on suspensions for Intensity Level V and below. Intensity Level VI and above automatically suspends classes and work in all public schools.
- Other Situations: No automatic suspensions for power outages and extreme heat. Suspensions for low air quality or volcanic fog are based on emergency levels declared by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
DepEd emphasizes that schools must ensure learning continuity despite disruptions. Schools are obligated to provide alternative learning opportunities and consider the attendance and completion of learning tasks for students who miss classes due to suspensions.
The revised guidelines come in response to data showing significant learning losses due to class suspensions. The Cordillera Administrative Region recorded the highest number of lost school days (36) since July, followed by Ilocos Region and Cagayan Valley (30), Central Luzon (29), Calabarzon (28), and Bicol Region (23).
DepEd aims to balance the safety of students and personnel with the need for continuous learning. By clarifying suspension protocols and promoting alternative learning strategies, the department hopes to minimize disruptions and ensure that students stay on track with their education.
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