The provincial government of Negros Oriental has ordered the suspension of classes across all levels in both public and private schools on Friday, August 7, following a reported surge in cases of conjunctivitis, commonly known as “sore eyes.”
Governor Manuel L. Sagarbarria issued Executive Order No. 50, Series of 2026, on Wednesday declaring the province-wide suspension upon the official recommendation of the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO).
He said the preventive measure aims to minimize close-contact exposure among students, teaching personnel, and school staff as cases continue to rise across several areas in the province.
Local health officials noted that sore eyes spread quickly in educational settings due to close physical interaction, shared surfaces, and common facilities.
The temporary class suspension is designed to give affected students and personnel time to rest and seek medical attention, while allowing schools time to perform thorough sanitation, Sagarbarria said.
School heads and administrators have been directed to utilize the suspension period to disinfect classrooms, offices, comfort rooms, clinics, handrails, desks, chairs, and other high-contact surfaces across their campuses.
To ensure learning continuity, Department of Education authorities and school heads have been granted administrative discretion to implement alternative learning setups, make-up classes, or other suitable arrangements.
Meanwhile, the provincial government and health officials strongly advise parents, guardians, and the general public to practice frequent handwashing, avoid sharing personal items, refrain from unnecessary physical contact, and consult medical professionals immediately if symptoms develop.*
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