THE CATHOLIC Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines – Episcopal Commission on Catechesis and Catholic Education backed the suspension of classes amid the continued surge in Covid19 cases.

Some schools and local government units have cancelled classes as teachers and students tested positive for Covid19 or have experienced flu-like symptoms.

“I agree with the very good decision to put health and life first,” Bishop Elmer Mangalinao, chairman of the commission, said.

“I agree with what leaders in various Catholic schools did to declare the health break, which was based on the thorough study as there is an increase in the number of Covid19 cases,” he added.

Mangalinao said that the safety of everyone should be given priority.

The bishop advised the public to follow health protocols such as wearing of face masks, hand washing and physical distancing.

He stressed the need for students, teachers, school staff and their families to work together to protect themselves from the Covid19 infection.