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According to [CNN Philippines], a senator has recommended putting up an alert level system for schools that can return to in-person classes while controlling the spread of COVID-19 infection in the country.
Speaking to CNN Philippines' The Source on Wednesday, Senator Win Gatchalian urged the government to assess the COVID-19 situation in different localities as part of a "science and risk-based approach" for reopening schools.
Gatchalian, who chairs the Senate Committee on Basic Education, Arts and Culture, said the lowest Alert Level 1 may be placed in minimal risk areas for COVID-19 where face-to-face classes can be held, while schools located in areas with more COVID-19 infections must remain under Alert Level 5.
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Metro Manila has been under general community quarantine with Alert Level 4 since Sept. 16. Under this scheme, restrictions are set for establishments that require closed and crowded spaces, as well as close contacts.
Granular lockdowns are also placed in smaller critical zones where residents have tested positive for COVID-19.
Limited in-person classes will resume in 100 public schools and 20 private schools in low-risk areas after over a year of a large-scale distance learning in the country. The government has yet to announce the date of the pilot run, but a selection process is underway to assess the readiness of the participating schools.
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Senator suggests alert levels for school reopening. (Photo / Retrieved from CNN Philippines)
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According to [CNN Philippines], advocates of health and education reform urged the government to ramp up testing, contact tracing, and vaccination among teachers and students ahead of the school reopening. Mass transportation, as well as the status of ventilation and other facilities in schools must also be addressed to reduce the risk of infection among schoolchildren.
