By CESAR JOLITO III
Amid rising cases of influenza-like illness (ILI) in several parts of Luzon that prompted class suspensions in Metro Manila, the Department of Education in Negros Island Region (DepEd-NIR) assured the public that no similar incidents have been reported in the region’s schools.
DepEd-NIR spokesperson Almyr Caezar Dequiña said that, while NIR remains free from ILI cases among learners, the agency is not taking any chances.
“We have no cases here yet, but definitely our health officers are looking into that and preparing for that one,” Dequiña emphasized.
He said regional and division health officers have been directed to strengthen health monitoring, ensure compliance with hygiene protocols, and coordinate with local government units for preventive measures in schools.
The assurance came after several schools in Metro Manila temporarily suspended classes earlier this month following a spike in ILI cases among students and teachers.
Dequiña said DepEd-NIR continues to prioritize student and teacher welfare by maintaining close coordination with health authorities and promoting preventive health measures in schools.
“We want to keep our learners and teachers safe — not just reactively, but proactively,” he added.
Wellness break
Meanwhile, to help safeguard students’ and teachers’ well-being, the DepEd central office has declared a “wellness break” for all public elementary and secondary schools nationwide from October 27 to 30.
Since October 31 has been declared a special non-working holiday, classes will resume on Monday, November 3.
“The declaration covers only public schools,” Dequiña clarified.
“Private schools may follow at their discretion, but they are allowed to conform to the memorandum,” he added.
Dequiña said the scheduled in-service training (INSET) programs for teachers will be adjusted to allow educators to fully benefit from the break.
“If rescheduling is not feasible, INSET may still proceed voluntarily,” he said, noting that teachers who attend will receive service credits for their participation.
The wellness break modifies certain provisions of Department Order No. 12, series of 2025, which governs the schedule of midyear INSET activities./CJ, WDJ