Philippines officials debunk fake nationwide class suspension

The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) and the Department of Education have warned the public against fabricated graphics circulating online claiming a nationwide suspension of classes and work for National Teachers’ Day on October 5.

While October 5 is a special working holiday under Republic Act No. 10743, the law does not mandate an automatic nationwide suspension of classes. Instead, it directs government agencies and local government units (LGUs) to provide opportunities for employees to participate in commemorations.

Several LGUs have issued independent local orders to suspend classes to allow teachers and school personnel to observe the day. For instance, Governors Eugenio Jose Lacson of Negros Occidental and Chaco Sagarbarria of Negros Oriental ordered suspensions in their respective provinces. In San Fernando, Pampanga, classes in both public and private schools were also suspended locally.