BACOLOD City – In response to extreme heat conditions, Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU) has relaxed its uniform policy for students and eased the dress code for employees across its four campuses.
The move, aimed at ensuring the comfort and well-being of the university community, was formalized through Memorandum Order No. 26, series of 2025, issued by University President Dr. Norberto Mangulabnan on March 25.
The policy took effect on March 28 and will remain in place until further notice.
Students from CHMSU’s Alijis and Fortune Towne campuses in Bacolod City, as well as those in Binalbagan and Talisay in Negros Occidental, are now allowed to wear civilian clothes, provided these remain in line with the university’s Dress Code Policy.
Dr. Mangulabnan said the initiative forms part of a multi-pronged approach to address the challenges posed by high heat indexes, with student and staff welfare as the primary concern.
Students and employees are encouraged to wear light, breathable, and comfortable clothing. The university has also established designated cooling stations on each campus, equipped with electric fans, cold water, ice packs, and first aid supplies.
The CHMSU Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, in coordination with campus medical units, will oversee these relief stations to assist anyone experiencing heat-related discomfort.
The university also reminded everyone to stay hydrated, with free water refilling stations available across campuses for students, employees, and visitors./PN
