High heat index prompts face-to-face class suspensions in parts of the Philippines

Dagupan City in the province of Pangasinan is expected to record the highest heat index at 42 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, according to the state weather bureau.

Jown Manalo and Tonette Orejas

Jown Manalo and Tonette Orejas

Philippine Daily Inquirer

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Elementary school pupils share an umbrella to protect themselves from the sun as they head home after classes were suspended at Baseco compound in Manila on Monday due to the scorching heat. PHOTO: PHILIPPINE DAILY INQUIRER

March 4, 2025

MANILA – Face-to-face classes on Tuesday (March 4) have been suspended in various Luzon areas due to the high heat index forecast by the state weather bureau.

Dagupan City, Pangasinan is expected to record the highest heat index at 42 degrees Celsius (°C) on Tuesday, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).

Meanwhile, its monitoring station at the Science Garden in Quezon City forecast a heat index of 38°C.

The following areas have suspended in-person classes on Tuesday, following Pagasa’s heat index forecast:

  • City of Manila – All levels, public and private, shift to alternative learning modality
  • Quezon City – Preschool to senior high school, public only
  • Abucay, Bataan – All levels, public and private
  • Hermosa, Bataan – All levels, public and private
  • Orani, Bataan – All levels, public and private
  • Samal, Bataan – All levels, public and private
  • Bacoor, Cavite – Preschool to senior high school, public and private

READ: DOH warns vs heat-related illnesses amid high heat index

The Department of Health (DOH) earlier cautioned the public about the risk of heat-related illnesses as heat index levels continue to rise across the country.

To prevent such illnesses, the DOH advised people to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water while avoiding iced tea, soda, coffee and alcoholic beverages.

It also recommended limiting outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and using sun protection such as hats, umbrellas and sunscreen.

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