Classes suspended in ARMM, Cotabato due to ‘Pablo’

Acting Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Governor Mujiv Hataman. INQUIRER.net photo/Matikas Santos

COTABATO CITY, Philippines—The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao has announced the suspension of classes in all levels in Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao on Tuesday as Typhoon “Pablo” hit land.

Acting ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman said the directive to temporarily close elementary and secondary schools in these provinces was meant to ensure the safety of students and school personnel from the devastating weather disturbance.

In North Cotabato, the Department of Education provincial office DepEd Cotabato Division declared suspension of all classes in all public and private pre-schools as early as 5:30 a.m. Tuesday.

Assistant School Division Superintendent Rommel Flores said the declaration was anchored on the provision stated in the DepEd’s order Number 43 that automatic suspension of work and classes due to inclement weather will be based on the typhoon signal warnings from the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.

Pagasa earlier declared Cotabato province is among twelve areas which were placed under storm signal number three as Typhoon Pablo (international name: Bopha) maintained its strength.

North Cotabato Gov. Lala Talino-Mendoza also advised residents living in low-lying and near mountain slopes to take all necessary precautionary measures against flashfloods and landslides.

“More LGUs today are ready and equipped for any eventualities. Civilians are more vigilant and cooperative, this will make our preventive or rescue efforts smooth sailing,” Mendoza said.