Manila Schools Shut Down Amidst Severe Heat

Henrik Larsen

4 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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Health Concerns Driving School Closures

The decision to close Manila schools stems from serious health concerns. Extreme heat presents significant dangers to children, whose bodies are less efficient at regulating temperature than adults. The consequences of prolonged exposure to high temperatures can be severe.

• Increased risk of heatstroke: Children's immature thermoregulation systems make them particularly vulnerable to heatstroke, a life-threatening condition characterized by a dangerously high body temperature.
• Dehydration: Dehydration, a common consequence of heat exposure, leads to fatigue, headaches, and impaired cognitive function, significantly impacting a child's ability to learn and participate in physical activities. Symptoms include dizziness, dry mouth, and decreased urination.
• Exacerbation of pre-existing conditions: Extreme heat can worsen pre-existing health conditions such as asthma, heart conditions, and diabetes, leading to serious complications for vulnerable children.

The Manila Health Department reported that temperatures consistently exceeding 38°C (100.4°F) for several consecutive days triggered the school closures. The Department issued a statement emphasizing the critical importance of protecting children from heat-related illnesses, urging parents to keep children indoors during the hottest parts of the day and to ensure they stay adequately hydrated.

Impact on Students and the Academic Calendar

The Manila schools heat closure has significantly disrupted the academic calendar. The exact number of schools affected is still being tallied, but initial reports suggest hundreds of schools across the city have been temporarily closed. The duration of the closure remains uncertain, dependent on weather conditions and government assessments.

• Disrupted schedules: Classes have been suspended, causing significant delays in the curriculum.
• Remote learning challenges: While some schools are attempting to implement remote learning strategies, access to technology and reliable internet connectivity remains a challenge for many students.
• Exam delays: The closures will likely lead to adjustments in the academic calendar, potentially delaying exams and impacting the final grading of students.
• Student and parent concerns: Parents expressed concerns about the impact on their children's education and the challenges of balancing childcare with work commitments. One parent commented, "It's a difficult situation. We're worried about the disruption to their studies, but we understand the need to prioritize their safety."

Government Response and Contingency Plans

The Manila city government, in coordination with the Department of Education (DepEd), has taken swift action to address the situation.

• Official announcements: The decision to close schools was publicly announced through official channels, including press releases and social media, ensuring parents and students were informed.
• Vulnerable student support: The government is exploring methods to provide resources and support to vulnerable students and families who may be disproportionately affected by the closures, focusing on ensuring access to essential services and necessities.
• School building safety: Measures are being taken to ensure the safety and security of school buildings during the closure period.
• Phased reopening plan: Plans are underway for a phased reopening of schools once temperatures decrease to safer levels, prioritizing a careful and gradual return to in-person learning. The DepEd has stated that a detailed plan outlining the criteria for reopening will be released soon.

Long-Term Strategies for Heat Mitigation in Schools

Addressing the recurring issue of extreme heat in Manila schools requires long-term solutions.

• Infrastructure improvements: Investing in improved school infrastructure is crucial, including better ventilation systems, the installation of air conditioning units in classrooms, and the construction of shaded areas.
• Heat-safety protocols: Implementing comprehensive heat-safety protocols and providing training for school staff on recognizing and responding to heat-related illnesses is essential.
• Adjusted school hours: Adjusting school hours to avoid the hottest parts of the day could significantly reduce heat exposure for students.
• Increased green spaces: Planting more trees and increasing green spaces around school grounds can help provide natural shade and reduce the urban heat island effect.

Conclusion

The severe heatwave in Manila has necessitated the closure of numerous schools, underscoring the significant health risks posed by extreme temperatures to children. The government's response has focused on prioritizing student safety and mitigating the disruption to the academic year. However, the Manila schools heat closure highlights the urgent need for long-term strategies to address heat-related issues in schools and protect students from future heatwaves. This includes investments in improved school infrastructure, the implementation of heat-safety protocols, and adjustments to school schedules.

Call to action: Stay informed about the latest updates on the Manila schools heat closure situation and support initiatives aimed at improving school infrastructure and creating safer learning environments for all students. Learn more about heat safety and how to protect yourself and your children from extreme temperatures. Let’s work together to ensure a safe and healthy learning environment for all children in Manila, mitigating the impact of future Manila schools heat closures and creating more resilient schools for our children.