Minors still banned at computer shops even as classes start

Joint Task Force COVID Shield chief Police Lieutenant General Guillermo Eleazar on Thursday reminded police commanders to ensure that minors will be prohibited in internet cafes as classes will start on October 5.

"We understand that a number of elementary and high school students in the public schools do not have computers, laptops and other gadgets for the opening of classes so there maybe some of them who would go to the internet shops for their online classes for the use of computers and to avail internet connections,” Eleazar said in a press statement.

"Our commanders on the ground should take the lead not only in reminding the internet shop owners that minors should not be allowed to enter in accordance of the guideline of the IATF (Inter-Agency Task Force on the Management of the Emerging Infectious Diseases) but also in making sure that this and other rules are strictly and properly observed,” he added.

Eleazar said police commanders should start accounting all the operating computer shops in their respective areas and begin the coordination with local government officials so that the IATF rule will be observed.

Meanwhile, the high-ranking police official also reminded owners of internet cafes to always disinfect their business establishments and to ensure that minimum health standards will be practiced.

Eleazar also said Philippine National Police chief Police General Camilo Pancratius Cascolan has urged local commanders to find ways to at least assist students using the internet. 

“We are all in this together. We should help each other out first by ensuring the protection of students and parents who would possibly go to the computer shops for online classes and second, to help out students if there are opportunities to help them cope with the new normal in the conduct of classes,” he said. -NB, GMA News