The Department of Education clarified there will be no online classes during calamities after the Alliance of Concerned Teachers slammed the department for being “unrealistic and insensitive” for highlighting the shift to hybrid learning modes.
DepEd spokesperson Michael Poa said his previous statement on online learning was related to moves to decongest schools and not to force learners to switch to hybrid mode during natural calamities.
“When we say no learning disruption, it does not mean that we will put our learners through online classes. DepEd Order No. 37 already says that when in-person classes are suspended, so are online classes,” Poa said in an interview.
“That [shifting to alternative methods, including online] is with the assumption that the learner feels well enough to go on with studying. But of course if they are in a situation in which they are incapable, then we will understand. They will of course be excused from activities,” the DepEd official added.
ACT chairperson Vladimer Quetua said DepEd’s statement that alternative learning, which may include modular and online classes, shall be implemented during typhoons and other calamities is “unjust and inhumane.”
“This is also insensitive to the actual situation of our general public during calamities,” Quetua said in a statement over the weekend.
Quetua also underscored the need to prioritize the welfare and safety of teachers and students during times of calamity.
“During calamities, the government, which includes DepEd, should be thinking of ways on how to provide assistance to its constituents.
Instead of adding to the burden of teachers and students who are already suffering from recent typhoons, the DepEd must think of ways to assist them,” Quetua added.