Cebu City Council Approves Proposal for 5:30 AM Classes Due to Extreme Heat

CEBU CITY, Philippines — The Cebu City Council approved a resolution on November 10, 2026, recommending earlier class schedules for elementary schools to protect students from extreme heat.

According to reports, some students have reportedly experienced nosebleeds due to the intense heat, raising concerns about their health and safety while attending school.

Under the resolution introduced by Cebu City Councilor Dave Tumulak, face-to-face classes are proposed to run from 5:30 AM to 10:00 AM, Monday to Thursday, while Fridays would be designated for Modular Distance Learning (MDL).

The proposal aims to reduce students' exposure to high temperatures, particularly during the hottest hours of the day.

Earlier Class Schedule Not Mandatory

The Cebu City Council clarified that the approved resolution is only a recommendation and does not automatically require all public and private elementary schools to adopt the proposed schedule.

Any changes to school hours must be carefully evaluated and coordinated with the Department of Education (DepEd), considering the actual conditions of individual schools.

Councilor Sisinio Andales also raised concerns that requiring students to wake up extremely early could affect their sleep and overall well-being.

As an alternative, he suggested holding shorter classes from 7:00 AM to 12:00 noon.

Meanwhile, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival said the proposal still needs to be discussed by the Local School Board to determine whether it is practical and safe for students.

Some Schools Have Already Adjusted Class Schedules

According to Cebu City Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Nimfa Bongo, several schools have already shortened their class hours to minimize students' exposure to extreme heat.

Some schools have adopted schedules from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 2:30 PM to 6:00 PM.

These adjustments depend on each school's conditions and existing DepEd guidelines.

Under DepEd Memorandum No. 064, s. 2026, schools may implement appropriate learning arrangements, including shorter class periods, adjusted schedules, and the suspension of face-to-face classes, depending on the heat index and actual school conditions.

Student Safety Remains the Priority

For now, the proposed 5:30 AM class schedule is not mandatory for all elementary schools in Cebu City.

Local officials and DepEd authorities are continuing to evaluate measures to protect students and teachers from extreme heat while ensuring that learning continues.

The proposal highlights the growing need for schools to adapt their schedules and learning arrangements to changing weather conditions, with the health, safety, and well-being of learners remaining the top priority.