The Department of Education (DEPED) Task Force COVID19 (DTFC) has recommended the entire closure of the DEPED main office starting yesterday until Wednesday, March 24.
This was announced after the Central Office (CO) clinic recorded six (6) confirmed positive cases who have physically reported to the CO in the past 14 days.
Memorandum Order No. 350 of the DTFC stated that “the five cases (3 females, 2 males) were tested on March 17, 2021 as part of the LGU requirement for their official travel to Central Visayas.”
“The testing was done at the CO, when the said cases, all asymptomatic, reported to work for other preparatory activities related to their travel” the memo added.
Previously one (1) male was tested positive on March 15, 2021 and have reported on that day at the CO.
Containment
The DEPED ensured that the lock down is consistent with the Operational Guidelines on the Application of the Zoning Containment Strategy of the National Action Plan against COVID19 response.
The agency further explained the move is meant “to give way for a complex-wide disinfection and contact tracing activity.”
Operations will not be hampered
Although work-from-home arrangement will be implemented for all CO personnel during the said week, “the public can be assured that operations of the Department will be functional without any interruption. Public services shall continue through virtual and alternative means”.
The DEPED also remind its personnel “to refrain from leaving their homes in this period for their safety.”
“Likewise, we would like to remind the public to strictly practice required health measures and protocols at all times for everyone’s safety. We must not let our guard down against the virus.” DEPED strongly advised. — Kenneth Paciente
