Dear CHMSU Community,
We understand that the recent rise in the heat index—reaching up to 42°C this November—brings discomfort and valid concerns for everyone’s health and well-being. While the University previously shifted to online learning during the sustained extreme heat of March through May, the weather patterns we are experiencing this month are notably unpredictable, often shifting rapidly from one day to the next. Notably, the provincial government’s own heat index advisories carry a disclaimer that reported figures are subject to daily updates and corrections as new data comes in, reinforcing how volatile these readings currently are.
In light of these conditions, and in accordance with the recent Executive Order No. 130, s. 2026, issued by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on October 28, 2026, granting educational institutions the authority to determine appropriate learning modalities, the University Administration has decided to maintain regular face-to-face classes.
This decision was made after careful consideration of several critical factors:
- Unpredictable Weather Patterns: Sudden daily fluctuations make abrupt shifts to online learning disruptive and unreliable for both students and educators.
- Academic Catch-Up: We must recover instructional hours lost during previous disruptions to ensure our students meet their required competencies.
- Learning Continuity: Building resilience and adapting to changing conditions are vital, provided we do so without compromising the quality of education.
Your safety remains our highest priority as we continue on-campus operations. To protect yourself and one another during warm periods, we strongly advise everyone to observe the following precautions:
- Stay Hydrated: Bring reusable water bottles and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Water refilling stations across all campuses remain fully operational.
- Avoid Outdoor Exposure: Avoid prolonged outdoor activities, especially during peak heat hours between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear light, breathable, and comfortable clothing in accordance with the University’s dress code guidelines.
- Monitor Your Health: If you feel dizzy, overly fatigued, or unwell, please seek immediate assistance at the University Medical Clinic.
Faculty members are also encouraged to exercise flexibility by maximizing classroom ventilation, allowing hydration breaks during sessions, and moving outdoor physical activities to shaded or indoor areas. We sincerely appreciate your patience, resilience, and cooperation as we navigate these challenges together. Let us continue to look out for one another and keep our academic community safe and thriving.
Global GREEN CHMSU ExCELSIOR!
