Collated by Shylla Mae Vegas and Camilla Kaye Baldoza
In one of its correspondences with Liderato kan Nueva Atenista, the Ateneo de Naga University administration clarified that decisions on class suspensions amid weather disturbances are made with due caution. These decisions are guided by scientific data, official forecasts from recognized weather agencies, and advisories issued by local government units, as well as the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Department of Education (DepEd).
The administration emphasized that such measures are intended to ensure that institutional responses remain evidence-based, deliberate, and primarily focused on the safety and welfare of the university community.
In light of this, ThePILLARS Publication gathered some of the sentiments of Ateneans on the university’s policy and decision-making process regarding class suspensions during weather disturbances.
On the timeliness and appropriateness of class suspensions
(What can you say about the appropriateness of AdNU's declaration of suspension of classes during incoming storms or typhoons?)
Ykia Loriss D. Mariano, III - BSEd, Major in Science
I feel dismayed because it seems that they are always delayed in posting an announcement which does not prepare everyone to evacuate immediately. We talk about safety here and we should do it urgently. Prevention from any harm is vital to avoid repercussions.
John Marc S. Reantazo, III - BS Information Technology
I can say that I find the announcement of no classes during incoming storms or typhoons sometimes a bit late. Although I am not one of the students who stays in a dorm and needs to go home to a distant place, I can still understand the struggles of other students, which are often shared on the AdNU Freedom Wall. Other than the timing, I think the system is generally okay.
Alexandra Gabrielle B. Lavadia, I - BS Accountancy
So far, I think it has improved to be timely and appropriate in accordance with the memos from the local government.
Ma. Christina Francesca A. Dizon, III - BS Psychology
AdNU’s decision to suspend classes during incoming storms or typhoons is generally appropriate because it prioritizes student safety. Typhoons in the Philippines can be unpredictable, and early suspension helps students prepare, travel safely, and avoid being caught in dangerous conditions.
Roma Aliyah E. Imperial, III - BS Biology
I’ve noticed that [...] class suspensions during incoming typhoons aren’t as immediate or aligned with the schedule of Naga City and other schools. Although I understand that the system wishes to utilize all available time to teach the required lessons and complete the syllabus, I think that delayed suspensions aren’t beneficial, especially for dormers. Still, I have no complaints about the process itself because I know that both the Ateneo and the Student Council are doing their best to make communication accessible to everyone. I also appreciate that they provide context in their announcements—very appropriate and professional.
Angel Aaron R. Andeza, III - BS Nursing
I appreciate how AdNU prioritizes the well-being and safety of its students, especially during calamities such as storms and typhoons. It shows that the university values our lives more than academic activities. However, there are times when suspension announcements come late, which is challenging for nursing students who have duties outside Naga. There are instances when we travel early to hospitals only to find out later that classes or duties are suspended, making our time and effort feel wasted.
On alternative modalities before incoming storms
(The University suspends face-to-face learning and switches to alternative modalities instead before a storm. What can you say about this setup?)
Alexandra Gabrielle B. Lavadia, I - BS Accountancy
From my perspective, it can be a good alternative depending on the state of the typhoon, considering that there may be power interruptions and having a non-conductive environment before a typhoon, it would be difficult to study effectively and compromise to the requirements.
Ma. Christina Francesca A. Dizon, III - BS Psychology
I understand that shifting to online or alternative learning setups before a storm is practical, especially for maintaining academic continuity. However, this setup may still pose challenges—like unstable internet, power interruptions, or difficulty focusing. Students understand that the University has a target [...] number of school days to reach, but during typhoons students should [...] worry academics the least.
Roma Aliyah E. Imperial, III - BS Biology
Switching to alternative modalities, whether modular or online, is a great idea only if there’s an assurance that the storm will not directly hit the region. Students should still receive the education and services they paid for. However, once heavy rains and flooding occur in parts of Camarines Sur and Naga City, it is more practical to declare asynchronous classes. This allows dormers enough time to prepare or safely travel home before conditions worsen.
John Marc S. Reantazo, III - BS Information Technology
I’m okay with this setup since it prioritizes student safety, and personally, I live close enough to adjust easily. However, the problem is that some students struggle with online learning due to slow internet, lack of proper devices, or an unsuitable home environment. These factors make alternative modalities difficult for others.
Angel Aaron R. Andeza, III - BS Nursing
Switching to alternative learning modalities is helpful in continuing lessons, but it can also be inconvenient, especially for dormers who want to go home early to prepare with their families. Attending online classes during this time can interfere with storm preparation and safety measures. While the intention is good, it may not always be practical during emergencies.
Ykia Loriss D. Mariano, III - BSEd, Major in Science
I think this may apply for those who still have access to electricity or those who are able to have a generator in case of blackouts. But in case of asynchronous setup the teachers must give ample time for the students to be able to finish their tasks. Aside from blackouts the bigger problem is the weak signal transmissions in various areas.
On the administration's consideration for student dormers’ situation
(Do you think the administration gives enough consideration to student dormers in the timeliness of class suspensions during typhoons?)
Ykia Loriss D. Mariano, III - BSEd, Major in Science
I think not because just like what I've said earlier there are times that the university announces abruptly but most of the time not. There is evidence of delay which as our memories serves us when the Typhoon Kristine hit the dormers were stranded.
Alexandra Gabrielle B. Lavadia, I - BS Accountancy
I think it's somewhere in between. There are times that they are reliable and times that I would still stress out if I should go back to my hometown, or stay, given that I am a dormer. I would be anxious if there might still be classes the next day or miss the chance to go home before the typhoon strikes.
Angel Aaron R. Andeza, III - BS Nursing
I think the administration does consider dormers, but there are still issues with the timeliness of some announcements. Late updates cause uncertainty and stress, especially when storm conditions are already worsening. Early and consistent communication would greatly help dormers decide whether to stay, go home, or prepare for evacuation.
John Marc S. Reantazo, III - BS Information Technology
I’m conflicted about this. I usually find out through social media—especially the AdNU Freedom Wall—that announcements were made late. Many comments even advise students not to wait for official announcements. Because of this, I’m not really sure if dormers are always sufficiently considered.
Roma Aliyah E. Imperial, III - BS Biology
From past class suspensions, I’d say no. When the university shifts to alternative modalities, some areas already suffer from poor internet connectivity, especially during heavy rains. This makes it harder for dormers to return home. During recent typhoons like Uwan, announcements were not made early enough, and after the storm, many students still lacked electricity and Wi-Fi, forcing them to rely on cafés just to attend classes and meet deadlines.
Ma. Christina Francesca A. Dizon, III - BS Psychology
The administration generally considers dormers when suspending classes, but there are times when the announcements may feel late for those who need more time to secure their belongings, buy necessities, or move to safer places. While the intent to protect students is clear, earlier or more consistent notices would benefit dormers more, since they experience the immediate impact of weather disturbances.
On class continuation and student safety
(How do you think the administration manages class continuation and safety of students after severe weather occurrences?)
Alexandra Gabrielle B. Lavadia, I - BS Accountancy
Based on the recent typhoons I think they provide acceptable resumption of classes, however needs further details about the academic continuity and flexibility for the deadlines needed.
Ykia Loriss D. Mariano, III - BS Education - Science
There are certain teachers who for the meantime spend their sessions through debriefing instead of continuing to discuss the lessons but I think the administration must lend at least an enough week for the students to be able to recover literally and psychologically. Given the fact that traveling back to Naga is not easy due to different underlying factors.
John Marc S. Reantazo, III - BS Information Technology
I think the administration manages class continuation fairly well after storms. They usually give ample time for students, faculty, and staff to recover. One example is after Typhoon Uwan, when a week-long pause was given, which I believe was appropriate.
Roma Aliyah E. Imperial, III - BS Biology
I’ve noticed that the initiatives are not yet fully student-centered. While assessing readiness before resuming classes is good, it still overlooks students without electricity or internet. Immediate continuation without addressing these limitations does not help much. It would be beneficial if the university conducted checks or visits in dorm-heavy areas to see if basic utilities have been restored, as students often spend extra money just to access the internet.
Ma. Christina Francesca A. Dizon, III - BS Psychology
After severe weather, the administration with the help of the student council usually balances class continuation with ensuring that students are safe and ready to return. They consider factors such as campus conditions, electricity, water supply, transportation, and the well-being of dormers and commuters. Their approach tends to be cautious, resuming classes only when the environment is stable.
Angel Aaron R. Andeza, III - BS Nursing
Overall, the administration handles class continuation and student safety well after severe weather. For nursing students, completing duty hours is essential, and the administration ensures these requirements are met while considering safety. However, communication could still improve, especially for students who cannot immediately return due to transportation or safety concerns.
