(DC file photo)
MALASIQUI, Pangasinan – Local government units in Pangasinan have announced adjustments to school and government work schedules on Friday, October 30, 2026, due to a forecast heat index of 40 degrees Celsius and preparations for the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
The municipalities of Basista and Malasiqui suspended afternoon face-to-face classes in all public schools, shifting to blended learning to protect students, teachers, and school personnel from potential health risks associated with extreme heat.
Basista Mayor Jolly Resuello issued an order Thursday directing public schools at all levels to conduct in-person classes in the morning and modular distance learning in the afternoon.
The directive was issued under Republic Act 7160, or the Local Government Code of 1991, and Department of Education Order 014, series of 2026, which provides guidelines on learning continuity during emergencies.
Resuello said the forecast heat index of 40 degrees Celsius could pose health risks, particularly to young children and other vulnerable individuals.
“The recommended arrangement provides for face-to-face classes in the morning, when heat conditions are expected to be relatively more manageable, and modular distance learning in the afternoon, when the heat index may reach its highest levels,” he said.
Private schools in Basista may also adjust or suspend their classes depending on the assessment of their respective administrators.
Similarly, Malasiqui implemented blended learning in all public schools, allowing students to attend face-to-face classes in the morning before shifting to modular distance learning in the afternoon.
Meanwhile, San Carlos City announced a half-day suspension of government work and in-person classes in public and private schools as part of preparations for the Undas observance.
Unlike the class adjustments in Basista and Malasiqui, the San Carlos City directive was primarily intended to ease traffic congestion and accommodate residents traveling for All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
San Carlos Mayor Julier Resuello said the annual observance traditionally brings an influx of visitors, returning residents, and travelers, resulting in heavy traffic along major roads and crowded public areas.
He explained that adjusting work and school schedules ahead of the long weekend would help manage the expected increase in travel and allow families more time to prepare for the occasion.
“It is also fitting to provide city government employees sufficient time to travel and participate in customary religious, cultural, and family activities associated with the observance of All Saints Day and All Souls Day,” the mayor said.
Emergency and health services in San Carlos City will continue operating despite the half-day work suspension to ensure uninterrupted delivery of essential public services.
The local governments advised residents, students, and government employees to follow the adjusted schedules and monitor official announcements for further updates.
