Academic institutions in Region 1 are ready to suspend face-to-face classes if temperatures become too high, as parts of Northern and Central Luzon experience intense heat, according to forecasts from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
Despite PAGASA not yet officially declaring the dry season, temperatures have been rising.
As of March 3, 2025, PAGASA has forecasted the following heat index in various areas:
- Clark, Pampanga - 46°C
- Muñoz, Nueva Ecija - 45°C.
- Dagupan City, Pangasinan - 40°C
- Tuguegarao City, Cagayan - 40°C
- Echague, Isabela - 40°C
- Abucay, Bataan - 40°C
- Subic, Zambales - 40°C
- Sinait, Ilocos Sur - 38°C
- Laoag City, Ilocos Norte - 38°C
- Batac, Ilocos Norte - 38°C
- Bacnotan, La Union - 38°C
- Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya - 37°C
In Dagupan City, the heat index could even soar to 53°C later in March, according to PAGASA-Dagupan Chief Meteorologist Engr. Jose Estrada Jr.
“’Yan ang pinaka-peak kasi, ngayong unang araw pa lang ng March nag-monitor na tayo sa heat index,” he said.
While no schools in Region 1 have suspended classes yet, the Department of Education (DepEd) Region 1 said school heads have the authority to cancel in-person classes if temperatures become too extreme.
“Ganyan po ang nangyayari kung talagang inaasahan na ng school head. Likewise, sa ating mga local government unit na kailangan talagang magsuspinde ng klase considering ‘yung init ng panahon, nabibigyan sila ng pagkakataon na mag-suspend ng klase,” Cesar Bucsit, DepEd Region 1 Information Officer, said.
If class suspensions happen, schools like Mangaldan National High School assured students' learning would not be disrupted.
“Kung sakali man, modular na lang talaga kami para at least kahit nasa bahay sila, makapag-aral pa rin sila,” Principal Eduardo Castillo said.
DepEd also ensured that proper ventilation is being maintained in classrooms.
Students like Rovic Rivo noted the challenges of the heat but said they were managing.
“Okay naman [kasi] kapag hapon, malamig na. Sa umaga, medyo mainit pero kaya naman,” he said.
