Rama issued EO No. 174 entitled “Order Balik Eskwela, Pabakuna Bonanza ug Ekonomiya Isaka” to help revive the city’s economy, said lawyer Collin Rosell, the mayor’s executive secretary.
The return of full in-person classes was lobbied by school administrators as they complained that limited in-person classes are no longer viable.
School administrators had an audience with Rama last week to discuss the resumption of full face-to-face classes.
“We know that students will flock in the city and we know our economy will start to rise but we have to be careful,” said Rosell.
Under the EO, minimum public health standards must be strictly observed in classes.
School administrators must ensure the implementation of the face mask policy, physical distancing, checking of temperature, frequent hand washing, disinfection, coughing etiquette, and early consultation and reporting of flu-like symptoms must be strictly enforced.
The city will also initiate vaccination drive in schools and universities.
Pupils, students, faculties, administration, and staff are encouraged to have themselves vaccinated against COVID-19, Rama said in the EO.
Rama also ordered the city’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to monitor the strict observance of health protocols in all schools.