Updated October 28, 2026. The Department of Education (DepEd) has issued Memorandum No. 064, s. 2026, titled “Anticipatory Action, Preparedness, and Protective Measures for the 2026–2027 Super El Niño.” It introduces localized precautions and learning arrangements based on conditions inside schools. This does not mean classes nationwide are automatically suspended: school officials assess actual local heat, water availability and safety risks.
DepEd’s 4H heat-index response framework
| Heat index | Level | What schools do |
|---|---|---|
| Below 27°C | Hayo | Continue face-to-face classes with scheduled drinking-water breaks and heat precautions. |
| 27–32°C | Hinay | School heads may shorten in-person hours or shift to hybrid or flexible home-based learning. |
| 33–41°C | Hinga | Suspend face-to-face classes and use lighter home-based learning tasks and health check-ins. |
| 42°C and above | Hinto | Suspend all physical and home-based academic activities for safety. |
Important: The thresholds concern heat index (combined heat and humidity), not simply the temperature shown on a weather app. DepEd calls for localized classroom monitoring rather than a nationwide automatic closure. Schools are to check indoor temperature and humidity at 8 a.m., noon and 2 p.m.
Does 42°C mean no online or take-home schoolwork?
Yes. At the Hinto danger level, the policy suspends both physical classes and home-based academic activities. At the Hinga level (33–41°C), physical classes are suspended but lighter home-based tasks and wellness check-ins may continue. Families should follow their school or division’s specific advisory rather than assume that a forecast for another locality applies to their school.
What schools must prepare
- Assess classroom heat, ventilation, safe drinking-water supply and water shortages.
- Provide hydration breaks and allow decent, light and breathable alternative uniforms or previously issued DepEd collared shirts.
- Maintain school feeding programs and contingency food supplies where disruptions occur.
- Check electrical systems and clear dry vegetation to reduce fire hazards.
- Prepare printed learning materials for permitted alternative learning arrangements.
What parents and students should do
- Check official announcements from your school, Schools Division Office and local government for any changes to class arrangements.
- Pay attention to heat symptoms and ensure access to drinking water; alert school staff if a child becomes unwell.
- Ask the school how learning materials will be provided during a Hinay or Hinga response. A Hinto suspension is not a requirement to complete online assignments.
- Do not assume the whole country is under the same heat-alert level: decisions are localized.
When does the memorandum apply?
The memorandum took effect immediately and is intended to remain in force until PAGASA announces the end of the 2026–2027 El Niño episode. The framework also addresses water scarcity and other risks; school heads may act based on conditions at their campuses.
Official sources and further reading
- DepEd Central Office Memoranda listing: DM 064, s. 2026 (October 26)
- DepEd Schools Division of San Pablo City: DM 064, s. 2026
- Philippine News Agency: DepEd explanation of the four response levels (October 27)
- Philippine Information Agency: preparation and school safeguards
NewsToGov editorial note: The memorandum sets a response framework; it is not an announcement that all schools are closed. Follow the latest local DepEd advisories for specific campuses.
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