Cebu gov to convene forum on air quality, class suspensions

TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol —The Cebu provincial government will convene medical experts, education officials, local government leaders, and parent representatives on Tuesday to discuss air quality concerns and guidelines for class suspensions.

Cebu Gov. Pamela Baricuatro set the open forum at 3 p.m. at the Capitol Social Hall to address growing concerns among parents, teachers, and students over air pollution and its possible effects on children’s health.

Baricuatro said the provincial government recognizes the need to prioritize children’s health and safety while ensuring that decisions on class suspensions are guided by reliable information and expert advice.

READ: Cebu haze: Class suspensions no longer mayor’s call but schools’

The forum will bring together mayors, pediatricians, pulmonologists, the Department of Education (DepEd), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB), private schools, parent-teacher associations, and health and disaster risk reduction officers.

Its issues include air quality readings that local authorities should consider when deciding whether to suspend classes, the appropriate thresholds for class suspension, and measures to ensure learning can continue safely.

The provincial government also aims to improve the timeliness of announcements, giving families and schools enough time to prepare for possible class suspensions.

Baricuatro clarified that decisions on localized class suspensions remain with the respective city and municipal mayors, in coordination with education authorities and in accordance with national policies.

She said the open forum would allow stakeholders to raise concerns, understand the scientific evidence, and work toward practical guidelines to help local governments and schools make informed decisions.

The provincial government will continue coordinating with local government units and partner agencies to develop approaches that protect children’s health while minimizing disruptions to education.

Baricuatro emphasized the importance of consultation and cooperation in addressing air quality concerns and ensuring the safety of children and communities. /coa