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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Advocates ask DepEd, DOH to issue clear ventilation guidelines in schools 

Advocates ask DepEd, DOH to issue clear ventilation guidelines in schools 

Published Oct 24, 2022 09:24 pm

With the scheduled implementation of five days of face-to-face classes in public schools next week, advocates of safe return to schools urged the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Health (DOH) to issue “clear, simple, and evidence-based” guidelines for the improvement of ventilation in schools.

Face-to-face classes at the Lakan Dula Elementary School in Tondo, Manila (ALI VICOY / MANILA BULLETIN)

In a press conference organized by Aral Pilipinas Coalition on Monday, Oct. 24, parents, students, and other key sectors gathered in a united call for DepEd and DOH to issue detailed guidelines to help improve ventilation in classrooms and prevent Covid-19 infections in schools.

Aral Pilipinas co-convenor Abbey Pangilinan underscored the need for a clear policy from DepEd and DOH since the health and safety of the learners and their families are affected.

While DepED has issued guidelines related to the conduct of face-to-face classes, Pangilinan noted that need to have “specific” provisions about ventilation.

READ:

https://mb.com.ph/2022/09/19/groups-underscore-importance-of-ventilation-for-in-person-classes/

While the nationwide implementation of full in-person classes in public schools will start on Nov. 2, Pangilinan said that “there is still time” for DepEd and DOH to issue a clear policy on ventilation that schools can follow.

Health reform advocate Dr. Tony Leachon also expressed support on the call of Aral Pilipinas for the issuance of clear ventilation guidelines in schools with the full implementation of face-to-face classes.

Leachon underscored the need to go “back to basics” which is observing health protocol.

“Our guidepost is wearing face mask,” Leachon said, noting that the government should reconsider its decision to make face masks optional outdoors.

Since the virus is airborne and social distancing may be difficult in small spaces, Leachon said that proper ventilation as well as putting up sanitation facilities in schools are also very important.

“Let us protect the schools kids,” Leachon said.

Aral Pilipinas is also pushing for the use of the “Safe Schools Calculator” which is an evidence-based assessment tool to help teachers and school administrators determine if a classroom setting is well-ventilated.

READ:

https://mb.com.ph/2022/10/06/use-of-safe-schools-calculator-to-assess-classroom-ventilation-pushed/

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