DepEd reminds schools of storm guidelines

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Education is reminding schools of the guidelines that ought to be followed by public and local decision makers in the event of a typhoon.

According to DepEd Order Number 28, Series of 2005, classes in pre-schools are automatically suspended or cancelled when the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical & Astronomical Services Administration raises a signal number 1.

When PAGASA raises the signal to number 2, classes in pre-schools, elementary and high schools must be suspended or cancelled.

The so-called “localized suspension” is allowed in the absence of storm signals like during weather disturbances, DepEd said.

The decision may be handed down by the school principal, division superintendent or local government executive.

Still, DepEd Secretary Armin Luistro said the final decision on whether or not a child may attend school lies with the parents.

Luistri said local suspension and parental decision are allowed since parents and officials on the ground have a better idea about the situation in their areas.

“We have existing policies that allow DepEd officials and local government executives to suspend classes at their level. This will avoid leaving our children on the streets when heavy rains and strong winds hit certain areas,” Luistro said in a statement. (THE FREEMAN)