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SONA: Duterte backs DepEd online learning plan

Aug 1, 2020
1 min read

by Justinne Francisco

“Until the COVID-19 vaccine is available, I will not allow the traditional face-to-face teaching or learning unless all risks of exposure to sickness are eliminated.”

Thus advised President Rodrigo Duterte on the country’s strategy to continue education amid the pandemic in his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) last July 27.

In line with the new learning platforms, the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Information and Communications Technology are currently developing the Public Education Network that will connect all public schools and DepEd offices nationwide.

“We will prioritize the connection of all Last Mile Schools, and those with no electricity supply can have it via satellite and energized via solar panels,” Duterte stated.

He also expressed his support for the use of online and modular learning, as well as television and radio-based education

With the majority of the population moving to online platforms to complete tasks such as shopping and learning, Duterte aims to make transitioning to the digital experience safer and easier with the implementation of the Internet Transactions Act.

“I cannot and will not put to risk the health and lives of our students and teacher,” the president explained.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Department of Budget and Management, and the Anti-Red Tape Authority, along with other government agencies, are tasked to make all possible services available online.

In addition, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority has launched a free livelihood skills training online with 71 programs currently.