The Department of Education (DepEd) is positive blended or distance learning "will work" despite growing public concern.

During the “Tatak ng Pagbabago 2020: The Pre-SONA Forum” held by the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), Education Secretary Leonor Briones assured they are more than ready for its implementation in the upcoming school year citing how concerned units of the agency - both in the Central, Regional and Schools Division Offices - are tirelessly working to ensure that amid the COVID-19 crisis.

She went on to note the success of a simulation of blended learning for various grade levels in Navotas City.

“As to the question if DepEd is ready, I can say that we are - we’ve seen it in our simulation - it will work,” she said.

Based on DepEd’s enrollment data, there are 20.22 million learners registered in both public and private schools.

DepEd extended the enrollment period until July 15 but Briones said late enrollees will still be accommodated beyond that.

"We believe that many will take advantage of the late enrollment policy of DepEd which has always been there,” Briones said.

In order to address concerns of parents and learners when it comes to access to learning, Briones assured there are various alternatives under the blended/distance learning approach.

“We can use gadgets, we can use modules, we can also use TV and radio,” she explained.

Briones reiterated that online learning is only one of the many options available under blended or distance learning.

“We do not insist that our learners, teachers use online learning because there are other alternatives. There are many ways to learn without going online."

Currently, Briones said their regional offices are busy preparing modular materials to be delivered to houses of learners where online, TV and radio access are not possible.