Senator Nancy Binay on Wednesday, July 6 called on the government to ensure that all school staff are fully vaccinated and that schools are fully compliant with Covid-19 safety protocols eve before the planned full implementation of face-to-face classes in November.

As a parent, Binay said she too wants to make sure that teachers and support staff are vaccinated, have booster, and trained for the conduct of classes under the new normal.

She also said she would want children are within well-ventilated classrooms, and to have health and safety protocols strictly implemented. She also said school restrooms should be equipped with soap and proper wash areas.

“By September, schools must be ready and compliant,” Binay said.

Binay added that the necessary testing protocols must be in place to ensure the safety of teachers and students.

“In additional, DepEd must see to it that our teachers and students have the necessary support from the government in terms of testing, that once there is suspected cases or symptoms in school, free testing and treatment are extended to them,” the senator added.

At the same time, Binay also urged the Department of Health (DOH) to fast track giving booster shots to learners aged 12 to 17, while students are still on vacation.

She also said local government units (LGUs) should help the Department of Education (DepEd) in mapping which schools are already fully compliant.

Binay said DepEd should able to assess the readiness of all private and public schools to handle a public health situation.

She also said she has confidence in Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte-Carpio and that she is looking forward to a much improved education sector.

“I believe VP Sara has already been fully briefed when it comes to implementation of face-to-face classes, and she and the President were given actionable recommendations,” she stressed.