EDCOM 2 warns repeated class suspensions could deepen learning crisis
Repeated weather-related class suspensions are putting instructional time at risk.
Repeated class suspensions caused by inclement weather and monsoon rains could deepen the Philippines’ learning crisis, the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2) warned.
EDCOM 2 Executive Director Dr. Karol Mark Yee said schools lose an average of 40 to 50 instructional days each year due to weather disruptions, typhoons, and heat waves.
“Maraming araw ang nawawala kasi 180 days lamang ang ating instructional days. So, binantayan natin ‘yan for the last years and talagang nag-a-average 40 to 50 days,” Yee said.
Grades 1 to 3 learners face the greatest risk because they rely heavily on direct, face-to-face instruction for foundational literacy and numeracy.
With the country still in Term 1 and entering the peak typhoon months from September to November, EDCOM 2 flagged that continued disruptions into Term 2 could require additional interventions to prevent further learning losses.
The commission also advocated localized, campus-level suspension decisions instead of broad city-wide suspensions, allowing unaffected schools to continue face-to-face classes when safe.
Teacher safety remains the priority before learning continuity measures are implemented. EDCOM 2 called for teacher training and ready-to-use alternative learning materials to support instruction during disruptions.
