METRO MATTERS
By MAYOR FRANCIS ZAMORA
The dry season is here, and with it comes rising temperatures and record-breaking heat indices. Across the country, extreme heat is putting students at risk, making immediate action not just necessary but critical.
The heat index, why it matters
The heat index measures what the temperature actually feels like when humidity is factored in. PAGASA, adapting data from the US National Weather Service, classifies its effects into four levels. A heat index between 27°C to 32°C can cause fatigue and heat cramps with prolonged exposure. When temperatures rise to between 32°C and 41°C, heat exhaustion becomes possible, and continued physical activity increases the risk of heat stroke. At 41°C to 54°C, heat exhaustion is likely, and heat stroke becomes a serious threat. Beyond 54°C, severe heat illness is imminent.
With Metro Manila and several provinces already experiencing heat index levels in the caution to extreme caution range, swift action is being taken to protect students and school communities.
How the government is responding
On March 3, 2025, Manila became the first city to suspend face-to-face classes due to extreme heat. In the following days, other local government units followed suit, prioritizing student safety as temperatures continued to climb. By mid-March, many areas had shifted to remote learning to minimize heat exposure.
The Department of Education has also empowered local governments and school administrators to adopt flexible learning methods when necessary. Beyond class suspensions, LGUs have introduced adaptive policies to protect students from heat-related illnesses.
San Juan’s immediate action plan
In San Juan City, I issued Executive Order No. FMZ-193, Series of 2025, adjusting school schedules in all public schools, including child development centers, effective March 4, 2025.
Under this directive, morning classes now run from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., while afternoon classes take place from 3 to 7 p.m. This ensures students avoid the hottest hours of the day between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., reducing their risk of heat-related illnesses.
To maintain learning continuity, students receive supplemental academic activities at home during off-campus hours.
For private schools, colleges, and universities, the city government has left the decision to their school administrators. However, we strongly urge these institutions to avoid in-person classes during peak heat hours for the well-being of students and faculty.
This is a proactive and necessary response that reflects San Juan’s commitment to student health and climate adaptation without compromising the education of our children. We will continue working closely with educational institutions to ensure this policy is effectively implemented.
Metro Manila’s unified response
The Metro Manila Development Authority has reinstated its “Heat Stroke Break” policy, allowing traffic enforcers and street personnel a 30-minute break during peak heat hours, with an additional 15-minute extension if the heat index reaches 40°C or higher.
As Metro Manila Council president, I believe this must be a coordinated effort across all local governments. Protecting our people from extreme heat is not just a city-level concern—it is a regional priority.
While government policies can mitigate risk, everyone has a role to play in staying safe. Simple but effective precautions include staying hydrated, wearing light and breathable clothing, limiting unnecessary outdoor activities during the hottest hours, and keeping up with weather updates and local advisories.
PAGASA forecasts indicate that extreme temperatures will persist until May 2025. This means we must stay vigilant, prepared, and informed. Through collaboration between national and local governments, schools, and communities, we can protect students, support families, and adapt to the realities of a warming climate.
The heat is rising, but together, we can rise to meet this challenge.