The San Beda College (SBC) Alabang and Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) Manila suspended synchronous and asynchronous classes from Jan. 10 to 15 amid the rising coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infections in the country.

Vice President for Academic Affairs Andres Ignacio C. San Mateo Jr. announced this in a memorandum released Jan. 7.

San Mateo, in a letter addressed to the Bedan community, announced that students in the basic education level, senior high school, College of Arts and Sciences, and Graduate School will have a five-day health break.

"The number of people infected by the coronavirus has increased rapidly over the past few days. In addition, the Academic Departments received information that their community members (faculty and students or their immediate family members are sick. The welfare of our stakeholders is our primary concern," San Mateo said.

He noted that the health break will enable the students, faculty, and academic non-teaching personnel to "attend to their health and other vital concerns."

The School of Law, however, will continue with its classes and follow the usual schedule.

"We encourage everyone to stay at home, observe health protocols, and follow IATF guidelines. Let us pray for the recovery of those affected and the end of the pandemic," he added.

LPU Manila likewise announced that during the five-day academic break, graded activities and submissions are also suspended to enable students "to focus on their physical health and mental well-being."

"We encourage everyone to be diligent in following health and safety protocols," the University said in an advisory.

Meanwhile, the National University (NU) also suspended classes in all its campuses from Jan. 10 to 12 and encouraged students to use the break "to rest and focus on your health and personal needs and concerns."