The first day of full face-to-face classes in Makati City went smoothly, according to Mayor Abigail Binay.
“I am glad to report that the first day of face-to-face classes in Makati’s public schools was successful. Nearly 80,000 students were able to come to school and were provided adequate protection through the strict implementation of health protocols,” she said.
The city chief executive said prior to the opening of classes Monday, the local government had equipped all 38 schools with thermal scanners at entry points, accessible handwashing facilities, alcohol dispensers, and foot bath mats.
She added that air purifiers and UV light filters had also been installed in every classroom as part of the city’s compliance with health protocols set by the Department of Health.
The mayor said the close coordination with the Department of Education-Makati (DepEd-Makati) has ensured adequate preparations for the full implementation of face-to-face classes in the city. She said they will be closely monitoring the conduct of classes and make the necessary adjustments in the coming days. Each school has a morning and afternoon shift, with an average classroom size of 30 to 45 students.
In Taguig City, Mayor Laarni Cayetano and other local officials inspected several public schools to check the condition of students and teachers during the opening of classes Monday.
Cayetano initially visited classrooms at Signal Village National High School and EM’s Signal Village Elementary School. The mayor was accompanied by DepEd TaPat Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Margarito Materum, School Governance and Operations Division chief Danny Espelico, and Councilor Marisse Balina-Eron
Vice Mayor Arvin Alit and Councilors Nicky Supan and Ed Prado visited the Western Bicutan National High School while Taguig – Pateros Rep. Ricardo Cruz was welcomed by students and teachers at R.P. Cruz Elementary School.
The Capt. Eddie Reyes Integrated School, on the other hand, was inspected by Taguig 2nd District Rep. Pammy Zamora, and Councilors Jomil Serna, Alex Penolio, and Edgar Baptista.
Councilor Carlito Ogalinola visited Bagumbayan National High School while Napindan Elementary School was chosen by Councilor Gammie San Pedro during the first day of school.
During her visit, Cayetano reminded the teachers and students about the importance of following health protocols to prevent the spread of coronavirus disease.
The local government earlier made various programs such as the Brigada Eskwela and One-Stop Shop Vaccination for teachers, nonteaching personnel, and students, to ensure that the opening of classes will be smooth and safe this year.
Cayetano said her administration will continue to prioritize providing quality education in the city while maintaining the safety of students.