The opening of classes in public elementary and high schools, including those in Mindanao, will push through on June 5 as scheduled despite the threat of martial law, the Education department said Thursday.
In a statement, Education Secretary Leonor Briones likewise said that students, teachers, and personnel “must be spared from any form of violence, intimidation, or threat” following the ongoing clashes in Marawi City between government troops and the ISIS-inspired Maute local terrorist group.
“The Department of Education [DepEd] further emphasizes that schools will not be used as evacuation centers.
‘‘In Marawi City, the provincial capitol and the Mindanao State University [MSU] will serve such purpose,” Briones said.
Briones also reminded “all sectors concerned to ensure the neutrality of schools and temporary learning spaces as zones of peace.
Meanwhile, Cebu Pacific Air has advised passengers to allot more time going to airports in light of the recent situation in Marawi City and the declaration of martial law in Mindanao.
The operations of Cebu Pacific in Mindanao remain normal, with no restrictions or limitations imposed on air travel by the authorities, the CEB said in a statement.
But it added that air travelers must have sufficient travel time to get to the airports due to the heightened security measures being implemented.
Heavy traffic is also anticipated around the areas as numerous check points are expected to be put up.
Guests flying to and from any Cebu Pacific or Cebgo destination in Mindanao from May 25 to 31, 2017 who are concerned about travelling at this time may opt to rebook their tickets for free within 30 days; or place the cost of the ticket in a travel fund for future use.
For flight rebookings or other concerns, guests are advised to contact the Cebu Pacific hotline at +632 7020-888. They may also message the official Cebu Pacific Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/cebupacificair)or Twitter (@CebuPacificAir) accounts. CEB also reminds its passengers of the following: Remember to bring a valid ID to be presented during check-in and boarding; Liquids, aerosols, and gels inside a hand-carry bag should be in a container (100 ml or less) and they should be placed in a clear, re-sealable plastic bag; be conscious in bringing objects with sharp edges (i.e. nail files, nippers, nail cutters, scissors, etc.) asthese may not be allowed in your hand-carry baggage; If you are bringing gadgets like your laptop, be prepared to take it out for inspection.
“We sincerely hope for our guests’ understanding, as everyone’s safety remains our priority,” said the airline management.
Last Wednesday, the Philippine Airlines also announced its is giving options to passengers with confirmed bookings dated May 24 to July 30 in Mindanao to rebook their flights.
PAL has flight services to and from Mindanao via Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Dipolog, Davao, Ozamiz, Surigao and Zamboanga.
“Rebook their tickets without penalty within 90 days from original flight date or within ticket validity period. Reboooking shall be allowed on restricted / non- restricted tickets.
Paid seats (Choice Economyand Forward Economy Seats) and pre-paid baggage may be rebooked/ reassociated to the passenger’s new flight date,” the airline stated.”Rerouting shall be allowed on restricted/non-restricted tickets without penalty; additional fares and taxes may be assessed, as necessary,” it added.