Manila, Oct. 22 -- Schools in Pangasinan may opt to implement suspensions or switch to alternative modes of learning amid the effects of strong El Nino phenomenon on learners, according to provincial government executives.

Provincial Administrator Manuel Luis Jr., in an interview, said the Department of Education (DepEd) is exercising its authority to conduct or suspend classes locally.

"Usually, once the heat index rises, the possibility is either suspension of classes or shortening of classes due to the heat. But we reiterate that the schools have the call, because the situation is not the same," he said.

He explained that some areas are colder compared with others, while some classrooms are air-conditioned and others are not.

"It ...