DepEd to allow in-person recognition, closing rites in Bicol schools

LEGAZPI CITY — With the easing of restrictions and low COVID-19 infections in Bicol, the Department of Education (DepEd) has decided that there will be more in-person recognition and closing activities in the region.

“We already have more than 2,500 schools having limited face-to-face [classes]. Face-to-face recognition or closing will be allowed to Alert level 1 and 2 areas provided the local government unit will provide assistance or approval and parents will consent,” Director Gilbert Sadsad, DepEd Bicol chief, told the Inquirer in a text message.

Sadsad said during the ceremony, health protocols like wearing of face masks and social distancing will be observed.

But there will be “no handshake and one parent is allowed during the activity,” Sadsad added.

The recognition and closing ceremonies in schools are scheduled between June 27 to July 2 according to the DepEd calendar.

As of May 18, Bicol still has 434 active COVID-19 cases.

READ: More provincial schools starting in-person classes