August 19, 2024 - The Department of Education (DepEd) issued DepEd Memorandum No. 046, s. 2024, authorizing schools in Region IV-A (CALABARZON, MIMAROPA) and the National Capital Region (NCR) to suspend classes due to volcanic smog (vog) following the recent eruption of Taal Volcano.
This decision comes after concerns regarding the safety of students and teachers in areas affected by the vog.
“In the absence of an official announcement from local government units, schools are authorized to suspend classes to ensure the well-being of our learners and personnel,” said DepEd in the memorandum.
However, the DepEd emphasized the importance of learning continuity. Schools are instructed to implement alternative learning modalities such as modular or online learning to minimize disruption in education.
The decision to lift the suspension will depend on the safety assessment conducted by the Philippine Institute for Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS). Schools and concerned personnel are advised to monitor official announcements from PHIVOLCS for updates.
The memorandum also outlines reporting protocols in case of casualties, displacements, injuries, or other incidents involving learners and teachers. Schools are instructed to report these incidents to their respective Regional Offices, who will then forward the information to the DepEd Central Office.
For faster response, the DepEd Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Service (DRRMS) has activated the Rapid Assessment of Damages Report (RADAR) application for this hazard. DRRM Coordinators in affected areas are required to submit reports through the RADAR application.
Residents in areas affected by the volcanic smog are advised to follow precautionary measures issued by local authorities and disaster risk reduction agencies.