A TEACHERS’ group raised concerns after reports that several teachers have been infected with Covid19 since classes opened on August 22.

“More teachers are getting sick, including those who are positive for Covid19, but there are no established protocols to respond to the problem and every school has its own response according to their contingency plan,” Benjo Basas, national chairperson of Teachers’ Dignity Coalition, said.

Under DepEd Order No. 34, s. 2022, schools must have an infection control plan and containment strategy which will be implemented in the event of the spread of Covid19 or other infectious diseases within their premises. The order, however, does not provide specific guidelines.

Basas said schools have different Covid19 responses.

TDC believes that there should be at least a common regulation as regards the disinfection contact tracing, class suspension, paid sick leave and financial assistance to teachers, and other urgent concerns as part of DepEd’s strategy.

“There should be a uniform policy. We cannot just rely on a school’s contingency plan, especially since schools do not have the resources to implement effective measures. Funds are necessary for the prevention of infectious diseases,” Basas said.

The group also sought clarification on the provision of the said order that “schools shall not be held liable should any learner or personnel turn Covid19 positive.”