Pasig raises ₱1.2 billion to buy gadgets for e-learning

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 17) — The local government of Pasig has raised ₱1.2 billion to purchase laptops and tablets for use in public schools, which are shifting to distance learning in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mayor Vico Sotto on Wednesday said these learning devices will be given to students and teachers of the city, from elementary level to senior high school.

The Department of Education earlier announced the resumption of classes on August 24 without face-to-face interactions due to risks of viral transmission. Sotto said they are currently coordinating with DepEd in gearing up to roll out remote learning education in Pasig.

“Alam natin na sa ngayon, medyo delikado pa at ayaw nating maging breeding ground ng virus ang ating mga paaralan. So magiging distance learning po talaga,” he said.

[Translation: We know that it is still risky [to go out], and we don’t want our schools to become breeding grounds for viruses. That’s why we would really have to implement distance learning.]

According to Sotto, they will likewise be providing gadgets for the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Pasig (PLP), the local government-run university.

“Magkakaroon din sila ng tablet. Ang estimate natin ay 2,000 hanggang 2,500 estudyante, more or less. Mabibigyan po natin yon,” he said. He added that he is already in talks with the local finance committee regarding the necessary budget.

An estimated ₱30 million will be earmarked to ensure the continued education of the PLP students, Sotto noted as he appealed that they enroll for the coming semester.

“Pakiusap ko sa inyo, mag enroll po kayo. Libre naman po. ‘Wag kayong tumigil sa pag aaral, sayang po ‘yung pagkakataon."

[Translation: I appeal to you to please enroll. Tuition is free. Don’t stop your education, as it will be a wasted opportunity.]