Human Rights Online Philippines

As we near the end of the current school year next month, the education sector is still grappling with persistent challenges. Specifically, implementing alternative delivery modes (ADMs) aimed at addressing the impact of extreme heat in our county has been quite challenging.

Local government units (LGUs) and Department of Education (DepEd) field offices not only in Metro Manila but in other regions as well, have implemented a variety of ADMs to mitigate the impact of extreme heat on childrens schooling. Some LGUs and schools divisions have adopted alternate class schedules for 2 to 3 days a week; some have imposed morning-only classes, while others maintain traditional 5-day classes or even extend classes to Saturdays. Such disparities, while understandable, underscore the need for standardized protocols, at least in Metro Manila, a densely populated but geographically compact region, which is the smallest in terms of land area. Thus, the heat index in the extreme south, Las Pinas City, is likely similar to its northern counterpart, North Caloocan City.

Another issue is the discrepancy in adherence to DepEd Order No. 37, s. 2022, which clearly stipulates that teaching and non-teaching personnel should not be required to report to work during the suspension of face-to-face classes, except for essential duties. This case is not only happening in Metro Manila but also in provinces. Thus, we urge the regional director of the DepEd-NCR and all the other 15 regional directors of the DepEd to issue directives to their respective areas to strictly follow the rules, as the practice of physical reporting not only violates the DepEd Order but would also put their teachers and employees in danger. DepEd Order No. 37, s. 2022, serves as a framework for class suspension during emergencies, disasters, and calamities, prioritizing the well-being of learners and personnel. Its application extends to a variety of scenarios, including extreme weather conditions such as heat or El Nino, as confirmed by subsequent memoranda and advisories issued by the DepEd Central Office.

In light of these concerns, we respectfully request the following:

1. A clear directive to all Schools Division Superintendents (SDSs) and school heads of the entire DepEd system to refrain from mandating physical reporting during the suspension of face-to-face classes, except for essential tasks;
2. Active engagement between the DepEd offices and the leadership of Local Government Units (LGUs) in provinces or regions, or with the Metro Manila Council (MMC) or the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), in the case of the NCR, to ensure a unified policy on adjustments to learning modalities.
3. Support of the DepEd Regional Offices, Local Government Units (LGUs), district representatives, and Regional Development Councils (RDCs) to the proposal to revert to old school calendar, which places school breaks in the hottest months of April and May, starting from June 2025 for the 2025-2026 school year.

Fulfilling these requests would greatly help our students, teachers, and other education stakeholders who are currently perplexed by the various alternative delivery methods of learning used in their localities or regions. #

Reference:
Benjo Basas, National Chairperson
09273356375
Teachers’ Dignity Coalition
Razon UMC Compound, Tomas St., De Castro Homesite, Sta. Quiteria, Caloocan City
Mobile:09166126739 • Email: teacherdignity.ph@gmail.com