THE Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) on the Emerging Infectious Disease has approved the conduct of phased in-person classes for all programs at the college level as proposed by the Commission on Higher Education (Ched) in areas under Alert level 3 and below, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles said on Wednesday, November 17, 2021.

IATF resolution number 148-G said the guidelines crafted by Ched and the Department of Health (DOH) will govern higher education institutions (HEIs) in ensuring the health and safety of those who will take part in the face-to-face classes.

It said the continuous implementation of proactive measures and restrictions must be put in place to prevent the further spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

“Based under the Guidelines on the Nationwide Implementation of Alert Levels System for Covid-19 Response, limited face to face classes are now allowed under Alert Levels 1, 2 and 3, subject to certain conditions (e.g. fifty percent (50 percent) indoor venue capacity, no opposition from the local government unit concerned, participation of fully vaccinated teaching and non-teaching personnel and students only.),” the resolution stated.

At the first phase of the implementation, which will be from December 2021 onwards, HEIs in areas under alert level 2 may apply.

Areas under alert level 3 may apply for the second phase of implementation, which will be from January 22 onwards.

The IATF earlier allowed the conduct of limited face-to-face classes in selected programs such as medicine and engineering.