Iloilo City Halts Classes Amid Severe Weather Conditions

ILOILO CITY — In response to harsh weather conditions enhanced by Typhoon Carina, Iloilo City’s government suspended afternoon classes on Tuesday, from preschool through senior high school, in both public and private institutions.

According to Philippines News Agency, the decision was captured in Executive Order No. 108, issued as the city anticipates moderate to heavy rains, full cloud cover, and gale-force gusts along the coast, compounded by high tides peaking at 2.05 meters around 11:19 a.m., heightening flood risks in vulnerable areas. The executive order, aimed at ensuring the safety of students and residents, was announced midday Tuesday.

The City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) reported significant impacts from the storm, with 133 families, totaling 374 individuals, affected by big waves and high tides across 10 barangays. The CSWDO also noted that 19 houses have been destroyed, and 33 have sustained partial damage, with affected families now sheltered in local evacuation centers.

In addition, city officials, along with representatives from Central Philippine University (CPU), are strengthening disaster preparedness measures. This initiative coincides with National Resilience Month, underscoring the community’s focus on reducing disaster-related casualties and damages. CPU President Dr. Ernest Howard Dagohoy emphasized the critical role of multi-sectoral collaboration in building resilience, stating that tackling such challenges requires concerted efforts beyond any single institution.

Iloilo City’s disaster risk reduction and management officer, Donna Magno, outlined the city’s strategic approach to disaster preparedness, aiming for zero casualties by addressing key vulnerabilities and enhancing community readiness to face adverse conditions effectively.