The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has sole responsibility for releasing storm signals during typhoons.  And these storm signals are used as basis for suspending classes in affected areas.

But in cases where no storm signals are released, the decision on whether or not classes will be suspended will come from the local government units (LGUs) — and not from the Department of Education (DepEd).  Parents should always be reminded of this policy to ensure that proper dissemination of information is practiced for the safety of students and other people concerned.  

The decision on the suspension of classes is directly based on the weather bulletins made by the state weather agency (PAGASA).

Automatic cancellation or suspension of classes in affected areas is made when the following storm signals are raised:

               Storm warning signals released by PAGASA at 10 in the evening and 4:30 in the morning of the following day will have an effect on the suspension of classes for the whole day in the affected areas.  Furthermore, PSWS released at 11 in the morning will affect the suspension of afternoon classes.

If no PSWS are released, the same guideline in announcing the suspension of classes is also followed by the local government units.

DepEd also encourages parents to make their own discretion regarding their children should go to school during typhoons or other natural calamities when announcements have not yet been declared.

Source(s): Philippine Information Agency, CNN Philippines

By: Mrs.Maria Joma S. Morales | Teacher III | Bataan National High School | Balanga City, Bataan