Heat Wave Forces School Closures Across Half Of Philippine Capital

Mei Lin

4 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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Extent of School Closures

Number of Affected Schools

Over 50% of schools in Metro Manila have been forced to close due to the intense heat, impacting a significant portion of the capital's student population. Precise figures are still being compiled, but initial reports indicate that over 1,500 schools across six cities – Quezon City, Manila, Pasig, Makati, Taguig, and Mandaluyong – have implemented temporary closures. This represents a substantial disruption to the educational system. The Department of Education (DepEd) is working to collect comprehensive data on the total number of affected schools and students.

Grade Levels Impacted

The closures affect all grade levels, from preschool to senior high school. The decision to close schools was based on the potential health risks posed by the extreme heat to students, particularly younger children and those with pre-existing health conditions. The intense heat makes commutes to and from school particularly dangerous.

• Quezon City reported closures across all 600+ public schools within its jurisdiction.
• Pasig City saw a similar widespread closure affecting an estimated 200,000 students.
• Closure durations varied; some schools closed for a single day, while others remain closed for an extended period, contingent on weather conditions.
• The total number of students affected is estimated to be in the hundreds of thousands.

Impact on Students and Education

Academic Disruption

The school closures due to heat wave in the Philippines are causing significant academic disruption. The extended closures threaten to delay the academic calendar, impacting exam schedules and potentially affecting students' overall learning progress. Missed classes will require catch-up strategies from teachers.

Health Concerns

The primary concern is the health and safety of students. The intense heat increases the risk of heatstroke, particularly during commutes to school, especially for children walking or using public transport.

• Alternative learning plans, such as online classes and supplemental learning materials, are being explored by some schools, but access varies significantly.
• Vulnerable students, particularly those living in impoverished areas without access to adequate cooling facilities at home, are disproportionately affected.
• "It's terrifying sending my children to school in this heat," said one parent, echoing concerns shared by many. "They come home exhausted and dehydrated."

Government and Community Response

Official Statements

The DepEd has issued statements advising schools to prioritize student safety and to implement closures as needed. The Department of Health (DOH) has also released heatwave advisories, urging the public to take precautions against heatstroke. Officials have emphasized the importance of monitoring weather conditions and adhering to safety guidelines.

Public Health Measures

The government has implemented several public health measures to mitigate the heat’s impact. These include disseminating heatwave advisories through various media channels, increasing the availability of cooling centers in public spaces, and promoting hydration.

• Several non-profit organizations are providing emergency relief efforts, including distributing water and providing cooling supplies to affected schools and communities.
• Community initiatives have emerged, with volunteers helping students and families stay safe during the heat wave.
• Discussions on long-term strategies are underway, focusing on climate change adaptation and improving school infrastructure to withstand extreme weather events.

The Broader Context of Climate Change

Frequency of Heat Waves

The increasing frequency and intensity of heat waves in the Philippines are undeniable indicators of climate change. The current heat wave is not an isolated incident; similar extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and severe, posing significant risks to public health and infrastructure.

Long-term Implications

Recurring heat waves have serious long-term educational and societal implications. Frequent school closures disrupt the academic year, affecting learning outcomes and potentially exacerbating existing educational inequalities. The economic impacts on families are also significant.

• Data shows a steady rise in average temperatures across the Philippines in recent decades, correlating with the increasing frequency and severity of heat waves.
• The need for climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies, including investing in climate-resilient infrastructure and promoting sustainable practices, is paramount.
• Integrating climate change education into school curricula is essential to prepare future generations to address these challenges.

Conclusion

The unprecedented heat wave and subsequent school closures due to heat wave in the Philippines underscore the urgent need for proactive measures to address the growing threat of climate change. The disruption to education and the risks to students' health highlight the critical need for both short-term relief and long-term adaptation strategies. We must ensure our schools and communities are resilient to extreme weather events. Understanding the impact of extreme heat, like the school closures discussed here, is crucial for building a more climate-resilient future. Stay informed about heat wave advisories and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your community from the dangers of extreme heat. Learning about and mitigating the effects of extreme heat is crucial to prevent future school closures due to heat wave and other climate change-related issues.