Angara Appeals: Don’t Pressure LGUs on Class Suspensions

DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara appeals not to pressure LGUs on class suspensions – HelplinePH

Angara class suspensions issue is trending as Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Sonny Angara appealed to parents and students not to pressure local government units (LGUs) to suspend classes too quickly.

He warned that frequent class cancellations lead to learning loss, affecting students’ education. DepEd is also requiring make-up classes to help students recover missed lessons.

Angara’s Appeal to the Public

In a media interview on July 21, 2025, Angara asked the public to be patient and allow LGUs to decide carefully when to cancel classes.

“We ask the public, parents, and students not to pressure local government officials to suspend classes just because of light rain,” Angara said.

He explained that too many suspensions disrupt the school calendar and reduce valuable learning time.

The Effects of Frequent Class Suspensions

1. Learning Loss Among Students

  • Every missed school day adds to the learning loss problem.
  • Students struggle to keep up with lessons, which may affect their academic performance.

2. Need for Make-up Classes

  • DepEd is requiring make-up classes on Saturdays or after school hours.
  • Teachers will adjust schedules based on availability to ensure students can catch up.

Why LGUs Should Not Be Rushed

LGUs are in charge of announcing class suspensions. Many parents have been complaining about late or unclear announcements, but Angara reminded the public that LGUs need to carefully assess the situation.

Declaring unnecessary suspensions not only disrupts classes but also puts additional pressure on teachers and students to hold make-up sessions.

Recent Weather Issues Affecting Classes

Heavy rains brought by Typhoon Crising and the southwest monsoon (habagat) have forced several LGUs to cancel classes in many areas. DepEd expects more cancellations if bad weather continues.

What Parents and Students Should Do

  1. Check Official Announcements – Follow LGU and DepEd pages for accurate updates.
  2. Prepare for Make-up Classes – Be ready for Saturday or extended classes in the coming months.
  3. Support Teachers – Understand that teachers are adjusting schedules to help students recover from lost lessons.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who decides on class suspensions?

LGUs decide based on weather updates and safety concerns.

Why is Angara asking the public not to pressure LGUs?

Because unnecessary suspensions worsen learning loss and affect students’ education.

Will there be make-up classes?

Yes, DepEd requires make-up classes on Saturdays or after school hours.

Can parents keep their children home if there’s no suspension?

Yes, parents may choose not to send their children if they feel it’s unsafe.

Angara’s message is clear: class suspensions should only happen when necessary. Safety remains important, but frequent cancellations hurt students’ education. By trusting LGUs and supporting make-up classes, parents and teachers can help reduce learning loss.