By Aerol John Patena
MANILA, Nov. 13 (PNA) — The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has ordered the suspension of operations of public and private higher educational institutions (HEIs) in Region 8 and in other severely-affected areas of Regions 6 and 7 in view of the large-scale destruction caused by typhoon “Yolanda.”
The HEIs are directed to resume their operations by Jan. 15, 2014 or as soon as their capability to operate has normalized and public safety and security been assured by competent authorities.
CHED regional directors of Region 8 and other regions concerned are instructed to undertake all measures in collaboration with each other to track the whereabouts and physical safety of their respective staff.
Furthermore, the regional directors should coordinate with the concerned HEI officials in their areas and be on alert for proper issuances from authorized government agencies primarily responsible for disaster operations and management.
Colleges and universities in affected regions that can manage to operate normally and whose students are able to continue with routine activities may opt to follow the regular schedule for the second semester.
However, these HEIs are urged to assist CHED in undertaking appropriate measures to mitigate the impact of “Yolanda” on the people living in the severely affected areas, particularly the students, faculty, staff and other members of the academic community.
When the situation warrants, affected HEIs are requested to coordinate with the concerned regional director to ensure that no student, faculty or staff shall be unduly prejudiced in their academic standing, employment benefits, or other compensation packages due them.
These higher learning institutions shall provide updated information on the status of their institution and the estimate of the damage they incurred.
“The Commission is enjoining all concerned sectors to extend their full cooperation and support in order to alleviate the conditions of affected Filipinos and make these more bearable and humane under the circumstances,” CHED Chairperson Patricia Licuanan said. (PNA)
SCS/ABP/UTB