Manila Schools Closed Due To Heatwave: Bangkok Post Report

Laila Abdi

5 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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Extent of School Closures in Manila

The recent heatwave resulted in a significant number of school closures across Manila. The exact number is still being tallied, but preliminary reports indicate widespread disruption to the educational calendar. Both public and private institutions were affected, impacting thousands of students.

• Number of public schools affected: Reports suggest over 100 public schools in various districts were forced to close, impacting tens of thousands of students. The exact figure is still being confirmed by the Department of Education (DepEd).
• Number of private schools affected: A significant number of private schools, particularly those lacking robust cooling systems, also closed their doors. Precise figures are yet to be released by private school associations.
• Specific districts or cities within Manila experiencing closures: Areas like Tondo, Binondo, and Intramuros, known for their densely populated areas and limited green spaces, experienced the most widespread closures. Many schools in these areas lack adequate ventilation and cooling infrastructure.
• Mention any universities or colleges impacted: Several universities and colleges in Manila also announced temporary suspensions of classes due to the extreme heat. This impacted thousands of college and university students across the city.

Reasons Behind the Manila School Closures

The Manila school closures were directly triggered by dangerously high temperatures associated with the unprecedented heatwave. The Philippines experienced record-breaking temperatures, far exceeding typical levels for this time of year. The heat index, which takes into account humidity and temperature, reached potentially life-threatening levels.

• Specific temperature readings recorded: Temperatures soared well above 38°C (100°F) in many parts of Manila, with the heat index exceeding 45°C (113°F) in some areas. These extreme temperatures posed serious health risks for students and staff.
• Health concerns for students and staff (heatstroke, dehydration): Concerns over heatstroke, dehydration, and other heat-related illnesses among students and school staff prompted the decision to close schools. Protecting the health and well-being of students and staff was paramount.
• Lack of adequate cooling systems in school buildings: Many older school buildings in Manila lack modern air conditioning or adequate ventilation systems, making them unsuitable for use during extreme heat. This infrastructure deficiency exacerbated the situation.
• Potential impact on learning due to extreme heat: High temperatures significantly impair cognitive function and concentration, making effective learning extremely difficult. The decision to close schools aimed to mitigate the negative impact on student learning.

Government Response and Support Measures

The Manila government responded swiftly to the crisis, implementing several support measures to mitigate the impact of the school closures. The DepEd played a crucial role in coordinating the closures and communicating with parents and students.

• Official statements from government officials: The Mayor of Manila issued official statements advising parents and students about the closure and outlining support measures. The DepEd provided regular updates and guidance.
• Plans for reopening schools (timeline): The government announced plans for a phased reopening of schools once temperatures returned to safer levels. A specific timeline was announced, dependent on weather conditions and the availability of resources.
• Support measures for students (e.g., online learning options): To minimize learning disruptions, the government explored options for online learning and alternative educational activities. Schools were encouraged to explore these alternatives for affected students.
• Public health advisories issued: Public health advisories were issued advising citizens on how to stay safe during the heatwave, emphasizing hydration and avoidance of strenuous activity during peak hours.

Long-Term Implications and Future Preparedness

This heatwave and the resulting Manila schools closed situation underscore the need for long-term planning and infrastructure improvements to ensure the safety and well-being of students during future extreme weather events.

• Potential for more frequent heatwaves in Manila: Climate change projections indicate an increased likelihood of more frequent and intense heatwaves in Manila and other parts of the Philippines in the coming years.
• Need for improved infrastructure (better ventilation and cooling systems): Investing in modernizing school infrastructure, particularly regarding ventilation and cooling systems, is crucial for preventing similar disruptions in the future.
• Importance of heatwave preparedness plans in schools: All schools should develop and regularly practice heatwave preparedness plans, including early warning systems and contingency plans for extreme temperatures.
• Call for increased climate change awareness and mitigation: Addressing climate change at a global level remains crucial to mitigating the frequency and intensity of heatwaves and protecting vulnerable communities.

Conclusion

The Bangkok Post report on Manila schools closed due to the heatwave highlights the severe impact of climate change on vulnerable populations. The widespread school closures underscore the urgent need for improved infrastructure, effective heatwave preparedness plans, and increased climate change mitigation efforts. The government's swift response was crucial, but long-term solutions are essential to prevent future occurrences of Manila schools closed due to extreme heat.

Call to Action: Stay informed about heatwave warnings issued by official government sources. Support initiatives aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change and improving school infrastructure to prevent future disruptions. Check regularly for updates from the Department of Education and the Manila City government regarding school reopenings. Let's work together to ensure that "Manila schools closed" due to extreme heat becomes a thing of the past.