Senate OKs bill allowing Duterte to reschedule opening of classes beyond August

The Senate approved on second reading an amendatory bill that would allow President Duterte to reschedule the opening of classes beyond August during states of calamity or emergencies.

Senate Bill No. 1541 seeks to amend Republic Act 7797, which currently mandates schools to open not later than the last day of August.

The proposed measure aims to provide flexibility in setting a new school year start date considering the ongoing COVID-19 situation.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, who sponsored the bill, emphasized its necessity amid concerns over potential spikes in COVID-19 cases if schools reopen physically.