Schools and universities under Alert Level 2 areas are now allowed to conduct limited face to face classes starting this February, provided that they will follow the mandates prescribed by the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd).
DepEd orders resumption in Alert Level 2 areas
Education Secretary Leonor Briones has instructed all regional directors of DepEd to start the “developing expansion phase” of in-person classes.
During the Senate basic education hearing last December, DepEd Assistant Secretary Malcolm Garma was optimistic about transitioning to the new normal phase in the implementation of limited face-to-face classes.
'We are very optimistic that we can already transition to the new normal phase starting 2022-2023,” Garma said.
In an announcement of DepEd, limited face-to-face classes are encouraged to begin in areas placed under Alert Level 2 in the country in February.
“As of today, no face-to-face classes are ongoing because the schools are on their mid-year break for February 2-5 under the school year 2021-2022 calendar,” DepEd said.
“The rest of the regions, as well as divisions in the above regions outside of those already under Alert Level 2, are continuing their preparations for the expanded phase of face-to-face classes in anticipation of improvement in the COVID-19 Alert Level in their respective areas,” DepEd added.
CHED’s advisory on limited in-person classes
However, this plan is not obligatory for colleges and universities to implement, and if the school administrations view online classes as the best option for the well-being of their students, then they are allowed to conduct face-to-face classes.
On the other hand, if they hope to organize a face-to-face setup, they are advised to comply with the standards set by CHEd for the safety of students and school staff.
"Higher Education Institutes intending to hold limited face-to-face classes during the COVID-19 pandemic must be willing to assume the responsibilities for the reopening of their campuses based on their ability to comply with the health and safety protocols, to retrofit their facilities, and to get the support of their stakeholders," CHEd said.
Meanwhile, Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) under Alert Level 3 areas are only allowed 30 percent maximum capacity for an indoor venue and 50 percent for an outdoor venue.
Unvaccinated students are strictly prohibited.
If infections occurred to several students, the HEIs’ Crisis Management Committee will provide preventive measures of suspension.
By Princess Baylosis
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