DepEd suspends face-to-face classes

Department of Education Central office in Pasig City —INQUIRER PHOTO / NINO JESUS ORBETA

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education-National Capital Region (DepEd-NCR) announced on Sunday that face-to-face classes in Metro Manila are suspended from Oct. 13 to Oct. 14 due to the increase in influenza-like illnesses among students.

According to the DepEd, schools shall implement Alternative Delivery Modalities to “avoid disruption of learning” during this period.

The DepEd also cited the series of earthquakes that have occurred all over the country as a reason behind the class suspensions.

In those two days, public schools were ordered to disinfect, sanitize and inspect their buildings and facilities. The DepEd also ordered the schools to prepare for earthquake drills, and other emergency protocols, and implement health and safety practices.

“Private schools are also highly encouraged to observe and conduct these measures,” the DepEd advised.

Earlier, Marikina suspended classes on the same dates in all levels for both private and public schools due to the spike in flu and flu-like illnesses.

National University Fairview also implemented preventative health protocols, such as mandatory wearing of face masks. —KEITH CLORES