EDUCATION Secretary Sonny Angara is rolling out comprehensive guidelines to prepare schools nationwide for the anticipated impacts of El Niño during the 2026–2027 academic year.
The directive aims to safeguard students and personnel from extreme heat and water scarcity while maintaining learning continuity and critical school-feeding services.
The policy follows a warning from the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST–PAGASA) regarding a potentially strong El Niño expected to peak later this year and persist into mid-2027.
“Under the guidance of President Marcos, we are tightening our proactive responses to ensure the adverse effect of El Niño is mitigated. We must prepare early to protect learners and keep education services going despite climate-related disruptions,” Angara said.
Aligning with DepEd Order No. 014, s. 2026, the directive introduces the 4H framework—Hayo, Hinay, Hinga, and Hinto—to guide school heads and superintendents in making localized adjustments.
Under Hayo (manageable conditions), regular classes proceed with thermal adaptations like hydration breaks and breathable attire.
When conditions escalate to Hinay (heat stress), schools may transition to modified hybrid schedules.
Hinga (extreme heat caution or water loss) scales back academic demands in favor of home-based modules and DepEd TV resources.
Finally, Hinto warrants the full suspension of classes during unsafe heat indexes, prioritizing safety and psychosocial support.
“We are giving our school heads and division superintendents the practical flexibility to exercise sound judgment based on actual ground conditions,” Angara noted.
To sustain health initiatives, schools must also manage water security, maintain buffer stocks for the School-Based Feeding Program, and preposition Self-Learning Modules before peak heat months.
Crucially, the guidelines prohibit schools from charging parents for cooling equipment or specialized clothing, ensuring zero out-of-pocket costs for families.