BACOLOD CITY: Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Abelardo "Albee" Benitez issued an executive order on Friday suspending classes in all levels both in public and private schools due to the heat index that reached 40 degrees Celsius as forecasted by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.

"This decision prioritizes the safety of our students and educators," Benitez said.

On Thursday, Ian Arnold Arnaiz, spokesman of the Department of Education-Division of Negros Occidental, said school heads were given the prerogative to adopt strategies to mitigate the impact of the hot weather in their respective schools.

"It will depend on the actual conditions of their schools. There is no rule that applies to all," Arnaiz said.

Earlier, parents raised their concern on the condition of classrooms, especially in public schools, amid the rise of temperature caused by the El Niño phenomenon.

Arnaiz said they can shorten classes if needed.

"Schools are required to submit a learning continuity plan like last school year. The conditions of schools in the mountain areas are different from the low lying areas," he added.

Arnaiz said school heads are given the discretion to decide for themselves.

"We expect that by April the schools will submit their strategies on how they will adapt as the heat index continues to rise," he said.

In San Carlos City, the city government has implemented a "Libreng Sakay (Free Ride)" program for students and senior citizens.

Joe Recalex Alingasa Jr., Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office chief, said the free rides will be in partnership with the City Social Welfare and Development Office.

Alingasa said the free rides are in addition to service vehicles already provided by the Philippine National Police.

He added that senior citizens and students "are prone to heat stroke," especially from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.