Early holiday, more fans to cool off: Philippine schools adapt to climate change

Students using a cardboard to protect themselves from the sun during a hot day in Manila on April 2, 2024. - AFP

MANILA: Kindergarten teacher Lolita Akim fires up five standing fans with three more at the ready as she fights to hold the attention of her pint-sized pupils in Manila's soaring heat.

Last year, heatwaves forced millions of children in the Philippines out of school. It was the first time that soaring temperatures had caused widespread class suspensions, prompting a series of changes.