LGUs and Universities Announce Shift to Distance Learning Amid Transport Strike

📷 Ulysses Nemeno

MANILA, Philippines — As the statewide transportation strike on Monday, October 16 approaches, numerous local government units (LGUs) and institutions have taken preventive measures to protect the safety and accessibility of education by postponing face-to-face sessions and shifting to online learning.

📷 Ulysses Nemeno

The transport group Manibela had earlier declared their intent to stage a strike, scheduled for October 16, in protest of alleged corruption within the transportation sector. Additionally, they are calling for a comprehensive review of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program.

According to Manibela Chairman Mar Valbuena, an estimated 240,000 traditional jeepneys are expected to participate in the strike, which has prompted the following LGUs and universities to make adjustments in their educational approach:

Local Government Units (LGUs):

Sta. Rosa, Laguna (October 16): In response to the strike, all levels of education, both public and private, will transition to online and modular classes.

Pampanga (October 16–17): All levels, public and private, will shift to online and modular classes or alternative learning delivery modalities on the specified dates.

Universities:

1. Adamson University (October 16–17): All levels of education will shift to synchronous online classes, with office work to be conducted remotely on October 16.

2. De La Salle University Manila (October 16): Classes and work activities will transition to online mode to ensure continuity in education.

3. National University Manila and Nazareth School (October 16): Both institutions will shift to synchronous learning methods to minimize disruptions.

4. San Beda University Manila and Rizal Integrated Basic Education Department campuses (October 16): These institutions will transition to online classes to accommodate students.

5. University of the East Manila and Caloocan (October 16): All education levels will shift to off-site synchronous learning via the Canvas learning management system for college, senior high school, and graduate classes. K-10 classes will utilize Google Classroom for their learning.

6. University of Santo Tomas (October 16): The University of Santo Tomas will adopt an Enriched Virtual Mode of Instruction, incorporating synchronous and asynchronous sessions along with remote work arrangements.

These precautions are being taken to protect students and instructors during the transport strike while minimizing disruptions to the educational process. The impacted local governments and universities are taking proactive measures to guarantee that learning continues to take place effectively during this moment of protest.