MANILA — There will be no classes in public elementary and secondary schools from May 2 to 13 to give way for the national and local elections, the Department of Education (DepEd) announced Monday.

In a Facebook post, the DepEd cited its Order No. 29 from 2021, which indicates that the dates are dedicated for "elections-related activities."

Some 320,000 teaching and nonteaching personnel under the DepEd will serve as Board of Election members in the May 9 polls, Undersecretary Alain Pascua earlier said.

But despite the class suspension, teachers are still expected to report to schools, even in days without election-related duties or activities, the agency added.

The DepEd recently required all personnel in areas under Alert Level 1 to physically report to schools and offices for work.

A number of educators' groups have criticized the policy, arguing that many schools still have unstable internet connectivity that would only disrupt teachers' online classes.

• Teachers' group rejects full return to onsite work in Alert Level 1 areas
• 'Unreasonable, counterproductive': Group opposes DepEd order on return to onsite work

Philippines schools are currently implementing blended learning, a mix of distance learning modalities and limited in-person classes.

The current school year is scheduled to end on June 24.

• Some schools prepare for in-person graduation rites
• No law exempting poll workers from tax: DepEd exec

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