Metro cities suspend classes on November 18 due to 'Pepito'

Classes at all levels of private and public schools in several cities in Metro Manila were suspended on Monday, November 18, after Metro Manila was placed under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 due to Super Typhoon Pepito.

In the eastern part of Metro Manila, the local governments of Mandaluyong and Marikina declared the suspension through DepEd Order No. 37, Series of 2022, which states that during natural disasters or emergencies, classes in public schools shall be automatically suspended in areas under the Philippine atmosphere. , Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration’s (PAGASA’s) Tropical Cyclone Warning Signals (TCWS) 1, 2, 3 or 4.

Meanwhile, the local government of Pasig said the suspension of classes at all levels in private and public schools in the city on Monday will be based on the presence of a TCWS over Metro Manila from 4 a.m.

“Sa pagkakataong may TCWS sa Metro Manila bukas ng 4:00 AM, awtomatikong suspendido ang pasok sa mgapaaralan sa Pasig (If a TCWS is in effect for Metro Manila tomorrow at 4 a.m., classes in Pasig schools will be automatically suspended) ,” it said.

On November 11 last year, Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto reminded students and school staff not to wait for a local announcement of the suspension of classes when Signal No. 1 or higher has already been lifted in Metro Manila, as this automatically means that classes at all levels are suspended. in the city.

Sotto explained the existing Executive Order No. PCG-48, Series of 2024, which locates Department of Education (DepEd) Order No. 37, Series of 2022.

Amid typhoon, DepEd said in-person, online classes and work from kindergarten to grade 12 and the Alternative Learning System (ALS) at all levels are “automatically canceled” in schools in local government units (LGUs) issued with tropical cyclone winds. Signals (TCWS) 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 by the PAGASA.

The mayor added that if a typhoon or heavy rainfall occurs but no red or orange rain warning is issued, school principals have the authority to cancel or suspend classes in their jurisdiction if they believe conditions are unsafe for students and staff.

The local governments of Caloocan, Malabon, Valenzuela and Quezon City also declared the suspension of classes at all levels, both public and private schools.

Las Piñas Mayor Imelda Aguilar also suspended classes at all levels, both public and private schools, saying they were prioritizing the safety of students, teachers and residents attending school during the typhoon.

Residents are advised to be alert and check city authorities for announcements and weather conditions.

According to the 5 p.m. PAGASA bulletin, Signal No. 2 is activated in Metro Manila, with “minor to moderate impacts” from gusty winds possible.

The typhoon is expected to leave the Luzon landmass by Sunday evening or early Monday, November 18. He may leave the Philippine area of responsibility by Monday morning or afternoon.