Capiz suspends classes amidst sweltering heatwave

By Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, Capiz – Amid the scorching heat enveloping the province, local government units across Capiz have declared class suspensions at the elementary and high school levels.

While Ivisan, Maayon, Cuartero, and Tapaz have not suspended classes, other municipalities have decided to pause educational activities.

Mayor Ronnie Dadivas of Roxas City has released an executive order to suspend classes in all schools, addressing both private and public institutions, from Thursday to Friday, March 14 and 15, based on the guidance from the City Risk Reduction and Management Council.

Similarly, various towns in the First District, including Panay, Panitan, Pontevedra, President Roxas, and Pilar, as well as Sigma, Dao, Dumalag, Dumarao, Sapian, and Mambusao, have followed suit.

Governor Fredenil Castro has called on the Department of Education (DepEd) to take action in safeguarding the youth from the severe heat caused by the El Niño effect by halting classes. Furthermore, the governor has recommended that the public restrict outdoor activities, stay hydrated, and avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks.

The Capiz State University (CAPSU) has announced a halt in face-to-face learning, shifting towards online and modular instruction, should the heat index surpass 37°C.

The university’s information office stated that evening classes will continue face-to-face, with the mandate that students must forego school uniforms for the time being, yet continue to display their school IDs while on campus.