SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go on Tuesday backed calls to hold in-person instruction for certain programs in higher education institutions located in areas under modified general community quarantine.

“Sa lahat ng hakbang na ginagawa ng gobyerno, palagi nating inuuna ang pagprotekta sa buhay ng mga Pilipino. Bagama’t sinusubukan nating dahan-dahang bumalik sa normal ang pamumuhay, ang pangunahing konsiderasyon natin ay ang kapakanan ng mga tao lalo na ang kabataan,” he said.

Go stressed the need for clear and consistent protocols to guide local authorities and HEIs in deciding how the limited reopening of classes can be managed in accordance with the level of risk in their communities.

“Mag-ingat po tayo para maiwasan na mag-back to zero tayo. Balansehin natin ang kakayahan ng HEI, laki ng klase at seguridad ng mga estudyante, professors at faculty. Ayaw po nating biglang tumaas ang bilang ng mga kaso at baka mahirapan na naman ang ating healthcare system,” he cautioned.

The senator, a member of the Senate higher education committee, recognized the need to help students whose learnings have been interrupted by the pandemic.

Go warned that the protracted closure of HEIs could have a serious impact on the quality of graduates, particularly those enrolled in programs that require a continuous delivery of high-quality education and training.

Go pointed out that medical schools should be able to continue to produce high-performing graduates who can join the workforce.

He urged the national government to ensure that they have the support and resources they need, such as masks, face shields and other personal protective equipment.

“Let me reiterate po: importante makapag-aral ang mga bata sa paraan na hindi sila mailalagay sa alanganin lalo na kung may risk na mas ma-expose sila sa sakit. Ayaw kong mapunta sa bata ang burden. Ayaw ko ma-pressure ang estudyante na pumasok sa eskuwela tapos may banta naman sa kanilang kalusugan,” he said.