IATF okays resumption of HEIs’ ‘face-to-face’ learning in Sept.

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID), in its Resolution 35-A, adopted the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) recommendations that the opening of classes in HEIs would be based on education delivery mode. (Pexels photo)

MANILA – Face-to-face learning in higher education institutions (HEIs) can only resume in September this year, Malacañang said on Thursday.

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID), in its Resolution 35-A, adopted the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) recommendations that the opening of classes in HEIs would be based on education delivery mode.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said HEIs that would resort to virtual online classes could open anytime, according to the latest resolution issued by the task force.

“Ibig sabihin po, kung gumagamit ng full online education ay makakapagbukas po sila kahit na anong oras (Meaning, if [HEIs] are using full online education, they could open anytime),” Roque, also acting as spokesperson of IATF-EID, said in a virtual presser aired on state-run PTV-4.

For HEIs that are using flexible learning, they can open anytime in August this year, he said, adding that HEIs that want significant residential or face-to-face classes can open not earlier than September 1 in areas under general community quarantine (GCQ).

“‘Yung mga face-to-face at in-person instruction po, hindi pupwedeng mag-bukas hanggang Setyembre 1 (Face-to-face or in-person instruction is not allowed until September 1),”
Roque said.

Private HEIs are encouraged to change their academic calendar and open in August this year, he said, noting that CHED would continue to review conditions and discussions with HEIs.

The IATF-EID’s new resolution was released as the country’s battle against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) continues.

Areas across the country that have low and moderate risk for Covid-19 will be placed under GCQ from May 16 to 31.Meanwhile, a modified enhanced community quarantine will be implemented in Metro Manila, Laguna, and Cebu City.

As of Wednesday, the Philippines has reported 11,618 confirmed Covid-19 cases, with 2,251 recoveries and 772 deaths.