ALMOST 4,000 schools have shifted to alternative modes of teaching as extreme heat forced the cancellation of face-to-face classes, affecting at least 1.39 million students across the country, the Department of Education (DepEd) said.
DepEd data shows that as of April 3, there were 3,954 schools implementing alternative delivery modes such as modules and online platforms, involving 1,393,806 students.
Region VI registered the most number of schools implementing ADM with 990, followed by Region XII with 801, and Region VII with 694.
Only Regions X, XI, XIII, and CAR have not declared suspensions of classes.
Filipinos are reeling from searing temperatures because of the dry season and the effects of El Niño.
The Department of Health asked the public to regularly monitor reports from PAGASA and take preventive measures against heat-related illnesses, including drinking plenty of water; avoiding iced tea, soda, coffee, or alcoholic drinks; limiting time spent outdoors between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.; and using protection against sunburn such as hats, umbrellas, and sunblock; and wearing loose-fitting, lightweight clothing.
