Malacañang on Sunday expressed optimism on the opening of school year 2020-2021 scheduled for tomorrow, Oct. 5, regardless of distance learning “issues” that could possibly arise.
“We are optimistic with the opening of classes in public schools tomorrow, Oct. 5, as the Department of Education (DepEd) assures the parents and the students that they are ready for the opening of classes in this period of Covid-19 normal,” Palace spokesman Harry Roque said in a statement.
The school opening was originally scheduled on Aug. 24 but was later deferred to Oct. 5 as recommended by DepEd and approved by President Rodrigo Duterte.
Distance learning methods will be used in the coming school year, through radio, television, the internet and printed modules.
Roque admitted that the system was still imperfect but expressed confidence the DepEd would address challenges in distance learning.
“The system may not be perfect and there may be issues as we shift to flexible learning, which includes modular learning and supplemented by broadcast and online classes; but we are confident that DepEd would address these challenges,” he said.
Roque also urged Congress to expedite the passage of DepEd’s budget.
Under the proposed 2021 national budget, the country’s education sector will get the biggest budget allocation of P754.4 billion.
As of Saturday, 24.7 million students have enrolled in public and private schools nationwide.
Education Secretary Leonor Briones will lead the commencement of the new school year in DepEd’s National School Opening Day Program tomorrow, which will start with a flag-raising ceremony at 7:30 a.m. John Ezekiel J. Hirro