Several public schools in Ilocos Norte received a total of 2,219 electric fans from the provincial government on Thursday, May 25.

Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc headed the turnover ceremony of electric fans to the Department of Education (DepEd) - Ilocos Norte at the provincial capitol grounds.

In an interview with the local media, Manotoc said the distribution of electric fans was made upon the request of the public schools in Ilocos Norte, Batac City, and Laoag City to help teachers and students cope with the summer heat.

“We give whatever they request from us,” Manotoc said.

At least ₱5 million has been released by the Ilocos Norte government for the immediate purchase of electric fans

According to San Nicolas Elementary School principal Rolen Oracion, some of their students experienced breathing difficulties and complained that the afternoon heat was “too much for them to bear.” She added that said some learners have been "cutting classes" in the afternoon.

Oracian also said the scorching heat prompted several schools to switch from face-to-face classes to online learning. While other schools in the province also opted to conduct classes under the shade of trees due to poor ventilation inside the classrooms.

As of this writing, the DepEd is still studying the return of the old school calendar wherein the months of April and May are summer vacations of students.

Written By Ailah Francisco, DZRH News Online Intern