DepEd allows schools in Calabarzon, Metro Manila to suspend classes due to 'vog'
Affected schools to shift to modular, online learning
Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara on Monday, Aug. 19, has allowed schools in Region IV-A and the National Capital Region (NCR) to declare suspension of classes due to the volcanic smog or “vog” from the Taal Volcano.

Angara issued DepEd memo no. 46 s. of 2024 or the class suspension in Region IV-A and NCR due to volcanic smog from the Taal Volcano.
READ:
https://mb.com.ph/2024/8/19/walang-pasok-face-to-face-classes-suspended-on-august-19-due-to-vog
In light of the activities of Taal Volcano and the release of volcanic smog in the past 24 hours, Angara said DepEd is “authorizing schools to suspend classes in the absence of an official announcement from the local government units.”
“To ensure learning continuity in affected areas, DepEd instructs schools to employ alternative delivery modalities such as modular or online learning,” Angara added.
Angara noted that the decision to lift the suspension will depend on “whether it is safe for learners and teachers to return.”
DepEd also advised concerned personnel to stay updated through news and announcements from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).
In cases of casualties such as displacements, injuries, or other incidents involving learners and teachers, DepEd said schools must report these to the Regional Office (RO).
The RO will then forward the information to the Central Office, through the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service (DRRMS).
DepEd said its DRRMS has also activated the Rapid Assessment of Damages Report (RADAR) for the said hazard. DRRM coordinators were required to report updates.
Phivolcs is currently monitoring degassing activity at Taal Volcano which has resulted in hazy conditions in nearby communities due to volcanic smog.
The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a health advisory urging the public to take precautionary measures to protect themselves from the risks of volcanic smog.
READ:
https://mb.com.ph/2024/8/19/doh-warns-public-of-health-risks-from-vog