Iloilo suspends in-person classes throughout Asean meet

ILOILO CITY, Philippines — Face-to-face classes in all levels, both in public and private schools, will be suspended from Feb. 25 to 27 as the city hosts a key meeting linked to the 2026 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) Summit.

Mayor Raisa S. Treñas on Feb. 20 approved the suspension following the recommendation of the Iloilo City Police Office, citing the need to ease traffic congestion and ensure security during the 49th High-Level Task Force on Asean Economic Integration meeting.

The three-day suspension covers all levels and is part of heightened preparations for the high-level international gathering, which is expected to draw delegates and representatives from Asean member states and partner institutions.

“This proactive measure is intended to help ease traffic congestion and ensure the safety and security of delegates, residents, and our students during this high-level international gathering,” Treñas said in a statement released by the Iloilo City Public Information Office.

Schools have been urged to shift temporarily to online or alternative learning modalities to avoid disruptions in academic activities.

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The move comes as Iloilo ramps up preparations for its role in hosting major Asean-related meetings this year. In recent weeks, the city government has intensified clearing operations, traffic rerouting dry runs, and security coordination meetings in key areas, particularly in business districts and major thoroughfares expected to be used by foreign delegates.

City officials earlier said hosting Asean meetings is seen as an opportunity to boost local industries, including hospitality, transport, food, and creative services, while showcasing Iloilo’s readiness as a meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) destination in Western Visayas.

Authorities have called on parents, school administrators and the academic community to cooperate, stressing that the temporary shift in learning setup is part of broader efforts to ensure a safe, orderly and successful staging of the Asean event. /cb