QC school heads, barangay chiefs may now suspend classes, work

MANILA, Philippines — School heads and barangay chairpersons in Quezon City may now suspend classes in their areas should public safety be comprised due to inclement weather.

Quezon City Public Affairs (QCPA) announced Wednesday that this was discussed during an orientation on localized class or work suspensions attended by representatives of the Quezon City’s School Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (SDRRMC).

The representatives were reminded that school heads may suspend classes in cases where “urgent action is needed to prevent loss of life or bodily harm,” as recommended by the Department of Education (DepEd).

They were also told that barangay chairpersons may suspend classes and work in their respective areas if justified by their pre-disaster risk assessments.

“The barangays, through their chairpersons, may declare suspensions,” Quezon City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (QCDRRMO) head Mike Marasigan said, as quoted by QCPA.

Both school heads and barangay chairperson were also directed to report immediately their decision to suspend classes to QCDRRMO.

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte earlier issued Memorandum Circular No. 1 that sets guidelines on the localized suspension of classes and work in government offices.

READ: QC bares guidelines for suspension of classes, gov’t work

Under the guidelines, city-wide class suspensions must be announced by 4:30 a.m. and no later than 11:00 a.m. for afternoon classes.