VICE President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte inspected the Triana Elementary School in Limasawa Island, Southern Leyte to check its readiness for in-person classes.

The school was damaged by Typhoon Odette in December and the Education chief acknowledged that its rehabilitation is urgent.

Duterte assured the teachers and students that the rebuilding of their school will be one of the priorities of the government, along with other damaged public schools in Mindanao and Visayas.

Judilyn Kangleon, Education District-in-charge, said they will open classes as scheduled.

“Puwede naman [magklase] ma’am kay na naay trapal (We can hold classes because we have tents),” Kangleon told the Vice President.

The Vice President said face-to-face classes is crucial for the progress of learners.

She gave assurances that health protocols will be followed to prevent the spread of Covid19.

Under DepEd Department Order 34, schools will implement social distancing and require the wearing of face masks in schools.

“Sa atong DO, distancing shall be implemented whenever possible. Nag-coordinate pud mi sa DOH,” Duterte told the teachers.