The Department of Education (DepEd) has announced class suspensions in parts of Region IV-A and the National Capital Region (NCR) due to the recent Taal Volcano eruption. The eruption has caused volcanic smog, also known as vog, to spread across these regions, making it unsafe for school activities.
Key Points of the DepEd Memorandum No. 046, s. 2024:
- Immediate Suspension of Classes: DepEd has given schools the authority to suspend classes due to the volcanic smog. This decision can be made even without a formal announcement from local governments.
- Continuing Education: Despite the suspensions, learning must go on. Schools are encouraged to switch to online or modular learning methods. This means students will either study online or use learning packages at home.
- Monitoring the Situation: The decision to resume classes will depend on safety assessments. Updates from the Philippine Institute for Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) will guide these decisions. Students and teachers are urged to stay informed through news updates.
- Reporting Incidents: Any incidents affecting students or teachers, like injuries or displacements, should be reported to the regional offices. These offices will then relay the information to DepEd’s Central Office.
- Use of RADAR: The Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service (DRRMS) has activated the Rapid Assessment of Damages Report (RADAR) system. DRRM Coordinators must use this tool to report any damages or incidents caused by the volcanic smog.
The health and safety of all students and teaching staff are of utmost importance. DepEd is closely monitoring the situation and will provide updates as necessary. Schools and families are advised to follow health guidelines and stay prepared for any further instructions.
