DepEd Memo 064, s. 2026: School Safety and the 4H Scenario During the 2026-2027 Super El Niño

The Department of Education (DepEd) has issued Memorandum No. 064, s. 2026, outlining comprehensive anticipatory action and protective measures to secure the basic education sector during the 2026-2027 Super El Niño. With DOST-PAGASA forecasting strong to very strong El Niño conditions persisting until the first half of 2027, schools face severe risks including prolonged heat exposure, water scarcity, and disrupted learning. To protect learners and personnel, DepEd's guidelines establish actionable protocols for flexible learning, infrastructure safety, and continuous essential services.

The 4H Scenario Continuum: Guidelines for Class Suspensions

Extreme heat conditions will not automatically trigger blanket class suspensions. Instead, schools will utilize the 4H Scenario Continuum to adjust learning delivery based on localized, daily heat index levels:

• HAYO (Below 27°C - Manageable): Standard face-to-face classes continue on campus with heat-adapted measures, such as scheduled hydration breaks, well-ventilated classrooms, and moving outdoor activities to cooler periods.
• HINAY (27°C–32°C - Caution): Face-to-face hours are reduced. Schools implement modified schedules (e.g., 6–10 a.m. and 2–6 p.m.), hybrid instruction, or structured home-based learning.
• HINGA (33°C–41°C - Extreme Caution): Face-to-face classes are completely suspended. Academic demand is reduced, shifting students to light tasks, modular packets, or DepEd TV/radio, alongside teacher well-being check-ins.
• HINTO (42°C and Above - Danger): All academic activities, including remote and home-based learning, are entirely suspended to prioritize immediate health and safety.

Health, Infrastructure, and Protective Measures

To support these learning modalities, the memorandum mandates several integrated safety strategies:

• Flexible School Attire: Learners and personnel are permitted to wear light, comfortable, and breathable clothing, including authorized alternative uniforms or DepEd collared shirts, during periods of excessive heat.
• Heat Index Monitoring: Classrooms must be equipped with calibrated thermometers and hygrometers. School heads will use these daily readings to determine the appropriate 4H learning modality.
• Water and Food Security: Schools are authorized to purchase water filtration kits to address potable water shortages. Additionally, schools must develop contingency plans for the School-Based Feeding Program (SBFP) to ensure uninterrupted nutritional support for at-risk learners.
• Zero Financial Burden: Schools are strictly prohibited from requiring families to purchase internet connectivity, cooling equipment, drinking water, or printed materials to participate in flexible learning.

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📥 Download DepEd Memorandum No. 064, s. 2026 Here