BUTUAN CITY, Aug. 17 -- Classes at all levels in public and private schools remain suspended Monday as the city government extended the measure due to the dangerously high heat index.

Schools have been closed since last week as the city continues to endure extreme heat conditions.

"Schools are encouraged to use other learning modalities, such as asynchronous or synchronous methods," the city government said.

Officials stressed that the extension aims to safeguard students, with the heat index expected to reach 43C on Monday - a level classified as "danger."

The city government also reminded residents to stay alert to rising temperatures and practice safety measures.

"Always drink water regularly, avoid prolonged exposure to heat, es...