DepEd: Stop linking suicide reports to modules, distance learning

The Department of Education (DepEd) is appealing to the public to stop connecting suicide cases to the implementation of distance learning, including the use of modules.

In a statement on Tuesday, DepEd also warned the public against some individuals and groups that are using these incidents allegedly to defame and undermine the efforts of the department.

“Nais naming ipanawagan na itigil ang pagkonekta nito sa mga modyul o sa distance learning,” it said.

“Binabalaan din namin ang publiko sa mga grupo o indibidwal na ginagamit ang mga nasabing insidente upang siraan at isantabi ang mga pagsisikap ng Kagawaran.”

Citing reports from authorities and concerned families, DepEd said none of these suicide incidents were proven to be linked to distance learning.

The department extended condolences to the families of concerned students and teachers.

“Naipaabot sa kaalaman ng DepEd ang mga pagsubok na hatid ng kasalukuyang sitwasyong mayroon tayo, kasama na rito ang malungkot na balitang may mga guro at mag-aaral ang pumanaw sa gitna ng krisis,” DepEd said

According to DepEd, its field offices are already reaching out to their families to provide assistance.

“Hinihiling namin sa publiko na igalang ang pribadong buhay ng pamilyang naiwan at gayundin ang pag-iwas sa mga kuro-kuro ukol sa sanhi ng pagkamatay ng kanilang kaanak,” it added.

Due to the COVID-19 threat, the DepEd decided to resume classes through blended learning, where students do not have to go to school to participate in classes to avoid possible transmission of the virus.

It also removed around 60% of the curriculum to adjust for the remote learning approach this school year.

The implementation of distance learning, however, was marred by poor Internet connectivity and lack of resources. —KBK, GMA News