THE NATIONAL Union of Students of the Philippines said learners obviously want a return to physical classes, but at the same time are also concerned with their safety.

NUSP National President Jandeil Roperos said the group conducted surveys nationwide and showed students favor conduct of face-to-face classes.

“Sa surveys naman namin na kinonduct sa NUSP, student councils all over the country gusto na talaga pumasok sa physical classes, pero hindi rin nila (isinasantabi) ‘yung kanilang kaligtasan,”  Roperos said.

She added regular Covid19 testing, contact tracing, and free treatment for students who will acquire the virus in school should be provided.

“Sa lahat ng mga estudyante masiguro na magkaroon ng regular testing, maayos na tracing, at siyempre libre ‘yung treatment sa mga estudyante at iba’t ibang education stakeholders sa panahon na mayroong magpositibo,” Roperos said.

Department of Education Secretary and Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio said 100 percent face-to-face classes shall be implemented in November.

Returning to schools would require additional budget.

“Ibig sabihin diyan dagdag na pondo para sa edukasyon kasi kung sasabihin natin ‘yung transition learning na face-to-face blended education, nangangailangan ‘yan ng pera for devices, pera para sa preparation ng face-to-face classes,” she said.

“’Yung face-to-face classes long overdue na siya na panawagan,” the student leader added.