DepEd makes face masks optional in schools

The Department of Education (DepEd) released DepEd Order 48 on Friday, November 4, making the wearing of face masks optional in indoor and outdoor spaces within school premises.

This order amends DepEd Order No. 39 series of 2022 to align with Executive Order No. 7 issued by Malacañang on October 28.

DepEd stated that students and teachers attending face-to-face classes may remove their masks in classrooms, effective November 2 when full face-to-face classes resumed in public schools.

Private schools have the flexibility to continue with five-day face-to-face classes, blended learning, or full-distance learning for the rest of the academic year.

The Department of Health (DOH) deferred to DepEd on policy decisions regarding student safety but emphasized the importance of proper assessment and implementation of protective measures against virus transmission.