IATF approves in-person classes in college level in areas under alert level system

The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) has approved the gradual resumption of limited face-to-face classes for all programs in the tertiary level in areas under the alert level system.

This is specified under IATF Resolution 148-G dated November 16 but released November 17.

The resolution states that the resumption will be done in the following phases:

• Phase 1 implementation starting December 2021 wherein all higher educational institutions (HEIs) in areas under Alert Level 2 may apply; and
• Phase 2 implementation period starting January 2022 wherein all HEIs in areas under Alert Level 3 may apply.

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"The continued implementation of proactive measures and restrictions must be put in place to slow down the surge in COVID-19 cases, stop further spread of variants, buy time for the health system to cope, and to protect more lives," the resolution said.

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Department of Health (DOH) earlier issued Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2021-001 or the Guidelines on the Gradual Reopening of Campuses of HEIs for Limited Face-to-Face Classes during the COVID-19 Pandemic which is a guidebook for HEIs intending to hold limited face-to-face classes and are willing to assume the responsibilities for the reopening of their campuses based on their capability to comply with health and safety protocols, to retrofit their facilities, and to get the support of their stakeholders.

The IATF, in the same Resolution, also earlier approved limited in-person classes in areas under Alert Levels 1, 2 and 3 amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

"Based under the Guidelines on the Nationwide Implementation of Alert Levels System for COVID-19 Response, limited face to face classes are now allowed under Alert Levels 1, 2 and 3, subject to certain conditions," the same Resolution read.

These conditions include: 50% operating capacity,  indoor venue, no opposition from the local government unit concerned, and limiting participation to fully vaccinated teaching and non-teaching personnel and students only. —KG, GMA News