The Schools Division of Angeles City and the Association of Government Employees for a New Dynamic Angeles City (AGENDA) have defended Mayor Carmelo “Jon” B. Lazatin II amid online criticism over the city’s decisions on face-to-face class suspensions during recent inclement weather.
Schools Division Superintendent Edgard Domingo urged the public to be more discerning and responsible on social media, stressing that decisions on class suspensions involve balancing weather forecasts, actual conditions, and the safety of students and school personnel with the need to sustain learning.
Domingo said Lazatin was among the first local chief executives in the Schools Division of Angeles City to announce class suspensions when conditions warranted. He also noted that the mayor regularly provided weather and city situation updates while monitoring developments.
“Hindi po madaling timbangin ang mga ganitong desisyon. Iba-iba ang aktuwal na sitwasyon sa bawat lugar, at mahalagang tingnan ang kabuuang larawan bago magdesisyon,” Domingo said.
He cited the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM 2), which has raised concerns over unnecessarily broad or prolonged class suspensions because of their impact on learning. Domingo said weather conditions vary by locality, making actual ground conditions an important factor in determining whether classes should be suspended.
Meanwhile, AGENDA said it was unfair to judge Lazatin solely on a single decision, noting the range of responsibilities handled by the city mayor.
“Hindi po makatarungan na basta na lamang husgahan at i-bash ang isang lider na araw-araw ay nagsisikap para sa maayos na pamamahala,” the group said.
AGENDA also pointed out that class suspensions affect workers and businesses, including jeepney and tricycle drivers and establishments near schools, whose daily income may depend on regular classes.
Both groups urged the public to rely on official announcements and exercise restraint, fairness, and responsibility online, saying constructive criticism is welcome but personal attacks and unfounded claims do not help address community concerns.
“Sa panahon ng social media, mas kailangan ang pagiging mapanuri, makatarungan, at responsable. Hindi lahat ng desisyon ay magiging popular, pero ang mahalaga ay ginagawa ito nang may malasakit at batay sa aktuwal na sitwasyon,” Domingo said.
