THE DEPARTMENT of the Interior and Local Government urged local government units (LGUs) to help make the resumption of in-person classes safe for all concerned.

DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. ordered LGUs to ensure the safety of students, parents, teachers and communities during face-to-face classes.

“With Covid19 still posing a threat to our students, LGUs are expected to continue the strict enforcement of the minimum public health standards and the Covid19 pediatric vaccination campaign as we gear towards 100 percent conduct of face-to-face classes,” Abalos said in a statement.

“There is nothing more important than prevention as we expect the influx of millions of students going back to classes,” he added.

Abalos encouraged the LGUs to convene their respective local councils and conduct the necessary preparations including building inspections to certify the quality and structural integrity of school facilities.

He directed the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection and other law enforcement units of LGUs to participate and support Brigada Eskwela initiatives and ensure that the road networks leading to schools are secure, clean and free from any obstructions and hindrances.

“It is only through a united front that we can successfully bring back our students to their schools, hence, we must work and cooperate in synergy to make their back-to-school experience safe, peaceful, and orderly,” Abalos said.