In-person classes resume in Batangas schools amid vog disruption

Classes have resumed in most schools in Batangas on Wednesday, August 21, 2024.

The suspension lasted for two days caused by volcanic smog, or vog, affecting schools throughout Batangas and neighboring provinces.

Cindy Estolano, a Grade Six teacher at Tagbakin Elementary School, said their modules are prepared in advance to ensure readiness in the event of sudden announcements.

"Yun po kasing module namin [ay ginawa] as preparation sa ganitong bagay. Pinamimigay namin before magsimula ang klase. Para just in case po, mag-announce sa gabi, kinabukasan ready po," Estolano said.

Face-to-face sessions are still suspended in several municipalities in Laguna, including Magdalena, Pagsanjan, Santa Cruz, and Cavinti.

In Rizal province, classes are suspended in Jalajala, Pililla, and Taytay.

As of August 21, the Taal Volcano's activity has calmed down, with a visible reduction in volcanic smog.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported a sulfur dioxide emission of 5,100 tons from the volcano, with no new vog formation.

"Very weak 'yung steam. Weak kasi madaling maano, madaling ma-disperse and then hindi mataas," Teresito 'Toto' Bacolcol, Director of DOST-PHIVOLCS, said.

Previously, boating activities in Talisay, Batangas were restricted, but these restrictions have now been lifted.

Despite this, local government units (LGUs) have reminded caretakers of fish cages to adhere to the designated window hours for feeding fish in Taal Lake.

"Mula alas sais ng umaga hanggang alas kuwatro ng hapon ay dapat sila'y makabalik na sila dito sa mainland para hindi naman makaapekto sa kanilang kalusugan din," Alfred Anciado, Municipal Administrator of Talisay, said.

The local government strictly prohibits overnight stays on islands or areas designated as permanent danger zones. —GMA Regional TV