Manila Schools Closed Due To Heatwave: Bangkok Post Report

Kenji Nakamura

4 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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Extent of School Closures in Manila Due to the Heatwave

The recent heatwave forced the closure of over 150 schools across various districts in Manila. Both primary and secondary schools, encompassing public and private institutions, were affected. Areas like Tondo, known for its densely populated communities and limited access to cooling resources, experienced particularly widespread closures. The impact is significant:

• Number of students affected: Estimates suggest over 75,000 students were directly impacted by the closures.
• Types of schools closed: The closures affected both public and private schools, demonstrating the widespread nature of the crisis.
• Geographic distribution of closures within Manila: The closures weren't isolated incidents; they spanned multiple districts, indicating a city-wide heat emergency. Schools in low-income areas faced even greater challenges due to limited access to resources.

Reasons for Manila School Closures – Health and Safety Concerns

Temperatures in Manila soared to dangerous levels, exceeding 38°C (100°F) for several consecutive days. These extreme temperatures pose severe health risks to children, including:

• Heatstroke: A life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention.
• Dehydration: Prolonged exposure to heat can lead to severe dehydration, especially in children who may not recognize their thirst.
• Heat exhaustion: Symptoms include dizziness, weakness, and nausea, all of which can significantly impair a child's ability to learn.

The Department of Education (DepEd), citing these serious health risks, made the difficult decision to temporarily close schools to prioritize the safety and well-being of students. The DepEd also issued guidelines for heat safety, advising parents to keep children hydrated and indoors during peak heat hours.

Impact of Manila School Closures on Students and Education

The Manila schools heatwave closure caused significant disruption to the academic calendar. The temporary closure raises serious concerns about potential learning loss and the added challenge of catching up on missed curriculum. While online learning options were explored, access to technology and reliable internet connectivity remains a significant hurdle, particularly for students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

• Potential for academic setbacks: The disruption to regular classes poses a risk of significant learning loss, especially for students already struggling academically.
• Strategies for mitigating learning loss: The DepEd is exploring various strategies, including supplemental learning materials and extended school days, to mitigate learning gaps.
• Equity issues related to access to alternative learning methods: The digital divide further exacerbates the impact, highlighting the inequality in access to resources and opportunities.

Long-Term Implications and Future Preparedness for Extreme Heat in Manila

The Manila schools heatwave closure underscores the urgent need to address the growing threat of climate change and its impact on education. The incident serves as a stark warning, emphasizing the need for long-term strategies to mitigate heat-related risks in schools.

• Investing in climate-resilient school infrastructure: This includes investing in better ventilation, insulation, and cooling systems in schools.
• Developing heat safety protocols: Clear guidelines and procedures must be developed and regularly reviewed to ensure preparedness for future heatwaves.
• Raising awareness about heat-related illness: Educating students, teachers, and parents about the symptoms and prevention of heat-related illnesses is crucial.

Conclusion

The Manila schools heatwave closure, as reported by the Bangkok Post, serves as a critical reminder of the urgent need to address climate change and its devastating impact on vulnerable populations. The disruption to education and the significant health risks associated with extreme heat demand immediate and proactive measures. Significant investment in climate-resilient school infrastructure and the implementation of effective heat action plans are vital to prevent future disruptions and safeguard the well-being of students. Addressing the challenges highlighted by this Manila schools heatwave closure is not merely about recovering lost learning time; it's about building a more resilient and sustainable future for education in the face of climate change. Let's work together to create safer, more climate-resilient schools for all.