FAKE: Malacañang did not suspend classes nationwide on Teachers’ Day

MANILA, Philippines — The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) on Sunday, October 4, warned the public against a fabricated graphic circulating online claiming that Malacañang had ordered the nationwide suspension of classes and work in schools today, October 5, in observance of Teachers’ Day.

The PCO said it did not issue such an announcement, urging the public to refrain from sharing unverified information and to rely only on official government sources.

The fake graphic, which carries the logos of the Office of the President and the Department of Education, claims that an alleged Executive Order No. 2026-09-65 suspended classes and work in public and private schools nationwide on October 5.

The circulating material is not an official Malacañang announcement, according to the PCO.

October 5 is a special working holiday

Under Republic Act No. 10743, October 5 is observed every year as National Teachers’ Day and a special working holiday. The law does not declare the date an automatic nationwide no-class day.

The law instead directs government agencies and local government units to provide sufficient time and opportunities for their employees to participate in activities commemorating National Teachers’ Day.

Why are some LGUs suspending classes?

Despite the absence of a nationwide suspension, several LGUs have issued their own local orders suspending classes for October 5.

Some local governments said their suspension orders were intended to give teachers and school personnel time to participate in Teachers’ Day activities, rest and spend time with their families. Other LGUs have adopted partial suspensions or alternative learning arrangements.

For example, the City of San Fernando, Pampanga suspended classes in public and private schools to give teachers a break from their regular duties and allow them to participate in activities or spend time with their families.

However, some LGUs have also withdrawn or revised earlier suspension orders after reviewing the legal and administrative rules governing class suspensions. Among those reported to have recalled or cancelled earlier directives were Infanta in Pangasinan, Godod in Zamboanga del Norte, Laoang in Northern Samar, Bataraza in Palawan and Narra in Palawan.

Other areas continue to have localized suspensions. GMA News reported that Laguna, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Butuan City, Lebak, Bauan, Rosario, San Juan and other areas had announced class suspensions or alternative learning arrangements for October 5. Zamboanga City, meanwhile, cited the high heat index as the reason for its suspension.

Parents, students and teachers are therefore advised to check the official announcements of their LGU, school or DepEd division for the status of classes in their respective areas.