DepEd Urged to Find Long-Term Solutions to Extreme Heat in Schools
The Department of Education (DepEd) has encouraged schools to buy electric fans to prepare for extreme heat due to Super El Niño.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara advised schools to use part of their maintenance funds to purchase electric fans. The move aims to make classrooms more comfortable and help students focus on their lessons despite rising temperatures.
Angara explained that schools could use a portion of their Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) budget to buy electric fans. Depending on the model, each fan may cost around P2,000, making them a possible option for schools looking for ways to improve classroom conditions.
He shared the suggestion on Wednesday, October 28, following his visit to Lakandula High School in Tondo, Manila. During the visit, he discussed possible ways for schools to prepare for the expected hot weather.
Aside from allowing schools to use their existing maintenance funds, Angara said the government could also provide additional funding to help them purchase electric fans. This support could benefit schools that have limited budgets but need more equipment to keep classrooms properly ventilated.
The planned preparations come as concerns grow over the possible effects of Super El Niño, which could bring hotter and drier conditions. Extreme heat can make it difficult for students to concentrate, especially in crowded classrooms with poor airflow.
However, the Action and Solidarity for the Empowerment of Teachers (ASSERT), led by president Arlene James Pagaduan, said temporary measures such as class suspensions and schedule changes are not enough to address the problem.
Pagaduan noted that many public school classrooms rely only on electric fans and lack air-conditioning systems. She urged DepEd to consider long-term improvements, including better classroom ventilation and air-conditioning units where budgets allow.
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