'Puwedeng mag-sando': DepEd no longer requiring uniforms for public school students amidst El Niño heat
The Department of Education will allow public school students to come to class in tank tops or sando, as long as these are "dignified" enough for school, said Education secretary Sonny Angara, citing the rising temperatures brought about by El Niño.
In an interview with media, Angara said public school students can wear outside clothes to school if they wish to do so. The department will not strictly enforce the wearing of uniforms as the country faces the onslaught of warming temperatures.
"Hindi na po kailangan mag-uniform. Informal, puwedeng mag-sando na lang or anything, basta medyo dignified nang konti. Pero hindi na kami nagsi-strict doon sa uniform kasi alam namin mainit sa loob ng classroom," Angara told reporters.
Students have been finding ways to stay cool in their classrooms, including bringing hand-held fans, extra drinking water, handkerchiefs, and small towels.
Angara also said DepEd is also working to improve school gardens, which are vital in food production for student feeding programs. According to him, if the gardens produce extra food, families of students may also take part in the program.
Apart from this, the department is also looking into installing more solar panels in public schools.
"Tinitingnan namin yung solar power para kahit uminit nang husto, makakapag-aral pa rin 'yung mga bata pag may mas malamig yung classrooms natin," Angara said.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration announced on Sept. 23 that a "very strong" El Niño was expected to persist through the first half of 2027. According to PAGASA, the weather phenomenon will bring warmer temperatures and below-normal rainfall across the Philippines, though there could still be periods of heavy rain.
WATCH: Save for retirement or enjoy life now? (Generations Ep. 21)
September 16, 2026
WATCH: Is Gen Z too soft? (Generations Ep. 23)
September 30, 2026
WATCH: Can we talk about death and grief? (Generations Ep. 25)
October 14, 2026