Palace: DepEd approves use of public schools as isolation centers until December

The Department of Education (DepEd) approved the use of public schools as COVID-19 isolation centers until the end of the year, Malacañang said Tuesday.

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said Education Secretary Leonor Briones gave the approval since face-to-face classes will only be allowed in low-risk areas starting January 2021.

“So bukod pa po doon sa mga istruktura na tinatayo po ni [Public Works] Secretary [Mark] Villar, ang ating isolation czar, nandiyan din po ang ating mga public schools para magsilbing isolation facilities sa level po ng mga barangays dahil importante po talaga ma-isolate kung wala pong sariling kuwarto at walang sariling banyo,” he said in a televised briefing.

The upcoming school year will begin on August 24.

The DepEd earlier said it would employ online and modular learning as well as tap radio and television networks to ensure delivery of lessons. — BM, GMA News