ZAMBALES Rep. Cheryl Deloso-Montalla slammed the Department of Education in the province for holding a face-to-face seminar that contributed to the rise of Covid19 cases in the area.

“While it is the mandate of DepEd to ensure universal access to quality education during this most challenging time in the recent history of humanity, the conduct of a face-to-face seminar involving a crowd beyond what is permitted by the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases by DepEd Division of Zambales is totally uncalled for,” Deloso-Montalla said.

She reported that 29 individuals, including principals and head teachers, who contracted Covid19 during the seminar are now being treated at the President Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Hospital.

Provincial Health Officer Noel Bueno said that more than 400 participants were quarantined after the training held at a resort in the province from March 2 to 6, 2021.

The lawmaker said the incident is being investigated by concerned authorities.

The DepEd in Central Luzon earlier said it formed a fact-finding team to probe the incident.

“The matter has already been referred to competent authorities for the determination of the propriety, soundness of judgment, and accountability of DepEd Division of Zambales in its conduct of aforesaid seminars,” she said.

The lawmaker urged DepEd to support those who contracted the virus during the training.

“I also urge DepEd Division of Zambales to do the appropriate thing, take the extra mile to assist all the school heads, teachers and their close contacts who fell victim to Covid19,” she added.

Division Superintendent Leonardo Zapanta took full responsibility for the situation, and promised that they will help those who contracted the virus.

“I appeal to the public to give us time to do immediate actions to ensure that all employees will be safe and provide support to all who are affected. We are willing to address all queries and concerns in due time, but now, please allow us to heal,” Zapanta said.