All systems go for June 1 school opening - DepEd

MANILA, Philippines - Despite the A(H1N1) threat, the Department of Education (DepEd) on Monday said it is "all systems go" for the opening of classes on June 1. Secretary Jesli Lapus made the declaration after joining President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and Health Secretary Francisco Duque III in campaigning for personal hygiene among pupils in Manila. "Tuloy na tuloy na tayo.  Lahat na paghahanda (sa) Oplan Balik Eskwela ay enforced na [Everything's set. All preparations through Oplan Balik Eskwela are in place]," Lapus said in an interview on dzBB radio. Despite the confirmation of two A(H1N1) cases, Lapus said there is no extraordinary preparation needed. "Wala tayong nakikitang extraordinary compared sa last year [We see no need for extraordinary preparations for this coming school year]," hes said. He said his department has already prepared action centers and a quick response center. On Tuesday, he said Mrs. Arroyo would preside over a Cabinet meeting at DepEd headquarters to make sure all government agencies are ready for the opening of classes. He also said Tuesday's Cabinet meeting would seek to ensure sufficient water and power supply in schools. - GMANews.TV