In the interview, Poa stated that in order to reduce the risk of transmission, they are receptive to the idea of a pediatric infectious disease expert to eliminate break time during class hours.
He noted that the current regulation forbids students from dining together during breaks and, if the space within schools will not enable pupils to eat separately, they should at least do so while facing the same direction. He added, “We are always open to the advice of the experts.”
Earlier, Dr. Anna Ong-Lim, professor and director of Pediatric Infectious and Tropical Diseases at the Philippine General Hospital, pleaded with school administrators to reconsider break times, particularly if students will only spend a half-day in school.
“Will kids still need recess if they only attend school for half a day? The child won’t become hungry then as readily. She previously spoke to The Chiefs in a mix of Filipino and English. “Or the school can issue an advise that there would be no recess, so the students should have proper breakfast before heading to classes,” she said.
In response to a question regarding Lim’s suggestion, Poa remarked, “Will absolutely explore that during this transition phase.”
