Deped allows paid leaves for teachers in isolation, voluntary wearing of face masks in open spaces
TEACHERS who will either catch Covid-19, manifest symptoms or be considered close contacts are entitled to paid leaves as they go on isolation to prevent the spread of the virus, the Department of Education (Deped) said Friday, October 7, 2022.
The agency also ruled that wearing of face masks in open spaces or non-crowded outdoor areas with good ventilation, as well as in playing sports and other physical activities will now be voluntary.
Deped spokesperson Michael Poa said that as to the paid leaves, under Department Order (DO) 39, both teaching and non-teaching personnel, as well as the learners will not be allowed to report onsite during such instances.
The DO noted that teachers may avail themselves of “excused absence” should they be unable to report to work provided it follows the Civil Service Commission Memorandum Circular 2, Series of 2022, or the guidelines on the use of leave credits for absences due to quarantine and/or treatment for Covid-19.
Under the memorandum circular, personnel who are considered to be under “excused absence” are not required to report to work but are entitled to payment of salary.
Deped said excused absence will apply to personnel who are in isolation and are not able to perform their work assignments at home.
“Their absence shall not be deducted to their accrued leave/service credits,” the DO stated.
It also said that the work-from-home arrangement will apply to asymptomatic teachers in isolation.
As to the voluntary wearing of face masks in open spaces, the DO stated: “Open spaces and outdoor areas shall mean areas or spaces with or without roofing.”
Poa stressed, though, that the wearing of face masks remains mandatory for all personnel, learners and visitors inside classrooms, laboratories and other school rooms.