DepEd: Over 1,000 schools considered for face-to-face class dry run; some regions reluctant

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 16)— Over a thousand schools across the country have been recommended for the pilot run of face-to-face classes in January next year, Education Secretary Leonor Briones said Wednesday.

Briones told CNN Philippines a total of 1,114 schools in areas considered as low-risk for COVID-19 were "nominated" by their respective regional offices, but noted the list will still be "significantly reduced" pending requirements.

"You have 1,114 schools which are available, but it does not mean that they will be ready," Briones said in an interview with The Source. "We have to clear with the local government. And we have to be sure that the parents are willing."

"'Yung aming mga facilities din, kailangan there will be provisions of social distancing, water is available. We are near a health station, we should have supplies for the children. Lahat lahat 'yan," she added, noting that regional offices are already assessing the concerned establishments.

[Translation: We also have to check our facilities, there should be provisions of social distancing, water is available. We are near a health station, we should have supplies for the children. All of that.]

President Rodrigo Duterte earlier approved the dry run of face-to-face classes in areas classified as low-risk for the coronavirus, provided strict safety and health protocols would be followed. The pilot testing is slated from January 11 to 23, with DepEd expected to come up with the final list of participating schools later this month.

Malacañang has clarified that the pilot run will be voluntary, stressing the need for the consent of parents and LGUs.

Briones said some regions, including Davao, have already expressed reluctance to participate in the activity.

"There are some regions who are saying already na hindi sila sasali (they won’t be joining). Ayaw nila (They don’t want to) because of the dangers which they perceive as still lurking around," the DepEd chief said.

Briones added the DepEd will also be awaiting advice from the Inter-Agency Task Force and the Health Department on whether COVID-19 testing would be regularized in schools joining the dry run.