Limited face-to-face classes in college allowed in MGCQ areas

Published June 7, 2020, 9:03 AM

Higher education institutions (HEIs) are allowed to conduct face-to-face classes but at limited capacity in areas under the modified general community quarantine (MGCQ).

Based on the omnibus guidelines on the implementation of the community quarantines, the Inter-agency Task Force (IATF) for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases has allowed residential classes at the tertiary level.

However, they should still comply with minimum health standards to combat the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

“Limited face-to-face or in-person classes may be conducted in HEIs provided there is strict compliance with minimum public health standards, consultation with local government units, and compliance with guidelines set by CHED,” the guidelines read.

“HEI activities that involve mass gathering of students shall continue to be prohibited,” it furthered.

The Palace earlier announced that HEIs can open as early as August 2020 as long as they utilize flexible learning arrangements.

Presidential spokesman Harry Roque earlier announced that the opening of classes in college will be based on education delivery mode:
* HEIs using full online education can open anytime;
* HEIs using flexible learning can open anytime in August 2020;
* HEIs using significant residential (face-to-face/in-person) mode can open not earlier than September 1, 2020 in areas under the general community quarantine (GCQ); and
* No residential (face-to-face/in-person) classes until August 31, 2020
According to Roque, private HEIs are encouraged to change their academic calendar and open in August 2020.

The IATF has adopted the Basic Education Learning Continuity Plan of the Department of Education (DepEd) which entails the reopening of classes on August 24 and will end on April 31 for K-12 Basic Education.

However, President Duterte has strongly opposed allowing students to have face-to-face classes while there is no vaccine or cure yet for COVID-19. DepEd has resorted to the implementation of blended learning which utilizes the Internet and broadcast media. (Argyll Cyrus B. Geducos)

SOURCE: https://news.mb.com.ph/2020/06/07/limited-face-to-face-classes-in-college-allowed-in-mgcq-areas/