The Philippines faces increasing challenges due to rising heat indices, significantly impacting students and the education system. On March 28, 2025, several schools in Pangasinan suspended or modified classes in response to extreme heat conditions. Alaminos City canceled classes at all levels, while Bayambang shifted to modular learning, highlighting how severe heat is disrupting traditional education.
The Impact of Extreme Heat on Students and Learning
As temperatures soar, classrooms without proper cooling become inhospitable, making it difficult for students to concentrate and perform academically. The Department of Health warns that heat indices between 33–41°C require “extreme caution,” while those between 42–51°C are classified as “dangerous,” increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
The effects of extreme heat have already led to widespread class suspensions across the country. In May 2024, heatwaves forced thousands of schools to shut down, affecting over 3.6 million students. If these trends continue, the academic calendar may face prolonged disruptions, hindering students’ learning progress.
Strengthening Resilience to the Rising Heat Index
To protect students and ensure continuity in education, several measures must be taken:
1. Improving School Infrastructure
- Retrofitting schools with heat-resistant designs, such as better ventilation, reflective roofing, and shaded outdoor areas, can help mitigate indoor heat.
- Implementing “cool roofs,” a strategy proven effective in cities like Ahmedabad, India, can significantly lower classroom temperatures.
2. Adjusting Education Policies
- The Department of Education is considering modifying school schedules to align with cooler parts of the day or year.
- Shifting to remote learning during extreme heat periods could be an alternative to keep students safe while maintaining academic progress.
3. Engaging Communities and Stakeholders
- Government agencies, NGOs, and local communities should collaborate on developing heat action plans.
- Raising awareness about heat-related health risks will help students, parents, and teachers prepare and respond effectively.
4. Environmental Initiatives
- Expanding urban greenery, planting trees, and creating shaded spaces around schools can reduce the overall temperature in school environments.
- Advocating for broader climate change mitigation strategies will help address the root causes of rising temperatures.
Moving Forward
With the rising heat index posing a growing challenge to education in the Philippines, immediate action is necessary. Strengthening school infrastructure, adapting policies, fostering community collaboration, and implementing sustainable environmental solutions will ensure that students continue learning in safe and comfortable conditions. Investing in these strategies today will help build a more resilient education system for future generations.
