Duterte approves limited face-to-face classes in low-risk MGCQ areas

Last updated on May 6th, 2021 at 10:33 am

MANILA – President Rodrigo Duterte has approved the proposal of the Department of Education (DepEd) to allow “limited” face-to-face classes in low-risk areas or those under the modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) where there is a low-risk of coronavirus transmission.

According to Spokesperson Harry Roque, Education Secretary Leonor Briones’ proposal got the nod from the president during a cabinet meeting on Monday night. Briones presented the pros and cons of allowing face-to-face class as she detailed the health measures that needs to be carried out.

The Education Secretary also recommended that classroom classes will be limited and will not be for the entire five days of the school week but rather only be for 1 to 2 days.

Private schools which have started physical classes last June will be allowed to continue while Face-to-face are expected to start on January 2021. Although children are not as affected by Covid-19, Minimum health standards will be strictly enforced for schools that will hold face-to-face classes.

After Briones presented the proposal, Duterte said he is “okay” with the recommendations.

The Department of Education recently announced that the upcoming school year will start on August 24. Schools will be adopting alternative learning delivery options such as online and home schooling.

Related Article: https://www.theasianaffairs.com/philippines/2020/07/16/classes-to-open-on-august-24-says-deped/