PRESIDENT Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has ordered education officials, with the assistance of other concerned agencies, to iron out preparations and plans for the resumption of face-to-face classes in the country this year.In a meeting with officials of the Department of Education (DepEd), including its secretary, Vice President Sara Duterte, on Tuesday, July 19, Marcos highlighted several issues, such as the availability of classrooms and teachers and the increasing number of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) cases, which may be encountered during the re-opening of in-person classes.He ordered relevant agencies to rebuild and repair school buildings destroyed by Typhoon Odette in December 2021.But Marcos said if these challenges will not be addressed, the government will have no choice but to continue carrying out blended learning.He also asked DepEd to include internet connectivity among the issues to be addressed.Based on the recent order issued by DepEd, blended learning shall no longer be implemented beyond October 31, as the department adopts a policy seeking the full implementation of the five-day in-person classes.“Ang gawin na lang natin i-identify saan ‘yung areas na magbe-blended learning para maka-focus tayo. Ihanda ‘yung mga devices at mga kailangan nila na noong pandemic hindi nasu-supply-an sa mga bata,” Marcos said.“We continue with blended learning pero in very specific places lamang. As much as possible, face-to-face na talaga,” he added.In response, Duterte assured that they will prepare a plan on what to do beyond October 31.School Year 2022-2023 will start on August 22 and end on July 7, 2023. (SunStar Philippines)