The Bacolod City government will provide free school supplies to students at public schools not later than November 22 when the 100 percent mandated face-to-face classes start, Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez said on Thursday, August 11.
The school supplies will be delivered on time, he said.
They are still determining the amount needed for the schools supplies and where the funds will be sourced from, Benitez also said.
The city government is preparing for the opening of classes, and is addressing health and traffic concerns, Benitez assured.
The city government wants to ensure that the health of students is properly protected, he said.
Dr. Carmela Gensoli, Bacolod City Health Officer, said they strongly advise parents to have their children vaccinated against COVID-19 for their own protection.
However, they will not be forced to be vaccinated, she said.
Gensoli said the CHO is also conducting fogging operations in schools as a deterrent against dengue.
Bacolod City has had 556 dengue cases and nine deaths as of August 6, or a 232.4 percent increase from last year, she said.
The top five areas hit with the most number of dengue cases are Mansilingan with 64, Taculing – 44, Estefania – 44, Tangub – 39 and Sincang-Airport – 38.
Gensoli said an information drive to prevent the spread of dengue is ongoing.
The best way to combat dengue is through education, Benitez said.
On COVID-19, Benitez said the city government will not impose a “no booster shot, no entry policy” at city government facilities or establishments.
The national government has not mandated that requirement, but they are encouraging Bacolod residents to get booster shots, Benitez said.*