It is expected to outline measures to protect students from extreme heat and water shortages, while also ensuring the continuity of classes and school-feeding services.
On Monday, October 19, Education Secretary Sonny Angara announced that the Department of Education will isssue guidelines requiring all schools nationwide to prepare for the anticipated impact of El Niño during the current school year.
Based on the guidance from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST–PAGASA), which indicates a potential strong to very strong El Niño event, the DepEd guidelines seeks to set up instructions for the phenomenon that could intensify before the end of 2026 and persist through the first half of 2027.
“[…] We are strengthening our proactive, protective, and anticipatory responses to ensure that the adverse effects of El Niño are mitigated. We must prepare early to protect learners and keep educational services running, despite climate-related disruptions,” said Angara.
The new policy will align with DepEd Order No. 014, s. 2026, or the Guidelines on Learning Continuity in Emergencies, where schools and Community Learning Centers (CLCs) will implement the “4H” framework—comprising Hayo, Hinay, Hinga, and Hinto—to manage local adaptations during a climate crisis.
Under the “Hayo” (Go) phase—where conditions remain manageable—face-to-face classes on campus will continue. However, adjustments include scheduled water breaks, the rescheduling of outdoor activities to early morning hours or shaded areas, and the allowance for flexible attire or the wearing of PE uniforms.
Meanwhile, if conditions be elevated to “Hinay” (Slow), there is already an onset of heat stress, with schools told to implement modified class schedules that incorporate structured home-based or hybrid learning.
If the situation reaches the “Hinga” (Breathe/Pause) phase, there is a need for caution due to extreme heat or a lack of water supply.
Thus, academic demands will be significantly reduced to prioritize the well-being of the students. Actions will involve the use of supplementary learning packets, brief literacy and numeracy activities, and resources available via DepEd TV and radio.
Lastly, under the “Hinto” (Stop) phase, it signifies health risks posed by a high heat index—leading to the suspension of academic activities and during this time, schools will maintain essential communication, conduct safety checks, and facilitate referrals for psychosocial support.
“We are giving our school heads and division superintendents the practical flexibility to exercise sound judgment based on actual ground conditions, classroom ventilation, and water availability. We trust our field managers to make the right call for their communities,” added Angara.
Key protective measures under this policy also include monitoring classroom temperature and humidity using calibrated devices, ensuring proper ventilation, and allowing teachers and students to wear comfortable, lightweight clothing—such as the official DepEd collared shirt or PE uniforms.
There shall also be a buffer stock of physical Self-Learning Modules and Learning Activity Sheets will be maintained for early distribution.
There will also be an integrated school-level risk assessment, covering factors such as the reliability of the water supply, classroom ventilation, the integrity of electrical systems, and fire prevention.
In order to maintain health and nutrition services during a prolonged dry spell, the Department of Education (DepEd) has also established strict protocols for the School-Based Feeding Program (SBFP).
Schools Division Offices (SDOs) and school heads are required to develop contingency menus, coordinate with local government units (LGUs) and farmers’ cooperatives to secure local food supplies, and maintain a buffer stock of non-perishable food items to ensure the students’ continued access to nutrition.
Schools must also safeguard water security by promptly repairing leaks, providing access to safe drinking water, and coordinating with local utility providers to arrange for scheduled water rationing.
The guidelines also strictly prohibit requiring parents to cover any fees or expenses such as those for refreshments, internet connectivity, or special attire as a condition for participating in flexible learning arrangements.
