DepEd suspends classes in Region IV-A and NCR due to Taal Volcano Smog

In response to the ongoing eruption of Taal Volcano and the resulting volcanic smog, the Department of Education  (DepEd) has authorized schools in Region IV-A and the National Capital Region to suspend classes, even without an official announcement from local governments.

The suspension of classes is formalized through Memorandum 046 s2024, issued today by Sonny Angara, DepEd Secretary. This memorandum outlines the procedures for class suspension and alternative learning methods, ensuring that educational activities continue despite the challenging conditions.

Schools are instructed to utilize alternative learning methods, such as modular or online learning, to maintain educational continuity. The decision to resume classes will be contingent upon improved air quality and the safety of students and teachers, with guidance from the Philippine Institute for Volcanology and Seismology.

Any casualties or incidents involving students or teachers must be reported to the Regional Office, which will then inform the Central Office. The Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service has also activated the Rapid Assessment of Damages Report for this hazard, and DRRM Coordinators must submit reports through the application.

Read memo:

DepEd Memorandum
No.046, s. 2024

August 19, 2024

CLASS SUSPENSION IN REGION IV-A AND THE NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION DUE TO VOLCANIC SMOG FROM THE TAAL VOLCANO ERUPTION

To:
Regional Directors Concerned Schools Division Superintendents Concerned Regional and Division DRRM Coordinators Concerned (Regions IV-A and NCR)

1. In light of the recent eruption of Taal Volcano and the release of volcanic smog (vog) in the past 24 hours, the Department of Education (DepED) is authorizing affected schools to suspend classes in the absence of an official announcement from the local government units.

2. To ensure learning continuity in affected areas, DepED instructs schools to employ alternative delivery modalities such as modular or online learning.

3. Meanwhile, the decision to lift the suspension will depend on whether it is safe for learners and teachers to return. Concerned personnel are advised to stay updated through news and announcements from the Philippine Institute for Volcanology and Seismology.

4. Furthermore, in cases of casualties such as displacements, injuries, or other incidents involving learners and teachers, schools must report these to the Regional Office. The Regional Office will then forward the information to the Central Office, through the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service at email address: drrmo@deped.gov.ph

5. Lastly, the DRRMS has also activated the Rapid Assessment of Damages Report (RADAR) for the said hazard. DRRM Coordinators are required to report using the application.

DOWNLOAD MEMORANDUM