KABATAAN Partylist Representative Sarah Jane Elago was elated by the decision of the Department of Education to allow the resumption of limited face-to-face classes in areas under Alert Level 1 and 2.

“It’s long overdue for the Duterte regime to green-light the safe and phased reopening of schools and limited face-to-face classes beginning in low-risk areas,” Elago said.

She explained that stakeholders’ empowerment and inclusion are key to foster active and meaningful participation of the community in ensuring the safe reopening of schools and learning continuity.

She also reiterated their call for the provision of education relief packages, such as student and teacher aid, especially in areas affected by Typhoon Odette.

“There must be additional subsidies available for schools to implement all the necessary Covid19 mitigation and prevention strategies including free testing and WASH facilities to allow and encourage the safe and voluntary return of students, teachers and staff in their campuses,” she said.

The Kabataan Party-list filed several measures such as the Safe Reopening of Schools bill, Education Aid bill as well as resolutions calling for action on student demands and ramping up vaccine access and information among stakeholders to ensure the success of in-person classes.