The Department of Education (DepEd) on Friday, June 5, released a new four levels-based Learning Continuity Framework that guides schools in deciding whether classes should continue, be adjusted, or be suspended before, during, and after emergencies.
Under DepEd Order No. 14, series of 2026, school heads are authorized to coordinate with Schools Division Superintendents and local government units in determining the appropriate level of learning and school activities based on conditions in their communities.
DepEd said the framework allows schools to make learning responses to affected classrooms or grade levels, instead of applying the same measures to an entire division.
Under the new system, the following levels have been implemented:
- Hayo (Continue) - Regular in-person learning continues when students and school personnel are safe.
- Hinay (Ease-in) - Learning proceeds in a slower, more flexible manner during mild disruptions.
- Hinga (Check-in) - Academic requirements are reduced to prioritize the well-being of students and staff.
- Hinto (Stop) - Academic learning is temporarily suspended when safety and basic needs are at risk.
According to DepEd, the goal is to establish a clearer framework for faster and more informed decisions during emergencies.
“Kapag may kalamidad o krisis, unang tanong dapat natin: ligtas ba ang mga bata at guro, at kaya na ba nilang matuto at magturo? Hindi pwedeng pareho ang hinihingi natin sa kanila kapag normal ang sitwasyon at kapag may pinagdadaanan silang panganib, takot, o pagkawala,” DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara said.
The guidelines also set standards for emergency learning resources and materials, including learning packets, printed or digital modules, broadcast lessons, check-in guides, home learning support, and family and emergency kits.
