BACOLOD CITY, Negros Occidental, Philippines — Bacolod Mayor Evelio Leonardia opposes the opening of classes set on 24 August, 2020.
“We have to make a choice and set our priorities,” he said in a video message furnished to the media, adding, “health is the most important thing right now.”
Earlier, the Department of Education has announced that the 24 August opening would push through, with enrollment starting 1 June despite the earlier announcement of President Duterte rejecting the idea of opening classes while a COVID-19 vaccine has not yet been developed.
The mayor said he “hopes” that the country’s health authorities would reconsider its decision.
He believes that it is wise now to postpone the opening of classes while a “crisis is raging”, as he also questions how schools can implement precautionary measure like social distancing.
“How do you [impose] social distancing? How do you stop children from being children?” he asked.
Leonardia, who is also the current national president of the League of Cities, also said an “overwhelming number” of local chief executives are one with him in opposing the opening of classes for this year.
“I am sure that Vice-Mayor [EL Cid Familiaran] and the rest of the council are also one with me,” he said.
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