Zubiri suggests delaying classes until January 2021

Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri proposed that the Department of Education (DepEd) should consider delaying the opening of classes until January 2021 if they are not yet prepared for distance learning.

He suggested that classes could initially open in select pilot areas to test the effectiveness of the learning delivery system.

Zubiri backed calls for postponement due to uncertainty on DepEd's preparedness for its learning continuity plan.

He cited the US experience where opening face-to-face classes led to 100,000 new infections among students.

Zubiri emphasized that the safety of students and the nation is the primary concern, and while education is important, its delivery must be effective.

Other senators have also voiced concerns or suggested postponements for the upcoming school year.

DepEd officials were scheduled to convene on Friday to discuss the mounting calls for postponement of the August 24 class opening.