DAVAO CITY, Philippines—Due to the recent bus crash incident in Tanay, Rizal that claimed the lives of 15 individuals, the Commission on Higher Education on Tuesday imposed a moratorium on field trips and educational tours in all higher education institutions across the country.
In a statement issued by CHED Commissioner Prospero de Vera III, both private and public colleges and universities are prohibited from conducting field trips until such time the investigation of the tragedy has been completed.
The decision came after commission en banc on Tuesday issued a directive upon the request of de Vera.
He also said the moratorium aims to review the existing guidelines and policies covering educational tours and field trips and to check if there are adequate protection to students.
“While it is true that field trips are essential to give students the opportunity to see and explore new things, enhance their learning experience in a natural setting, and provide for interest-driven and hands-on training, the safety of the students on field trips must be ensured at all times by school authorities,” De Vera added.
Under CHED Memorandum No. 17, s. 2012, HEIs are required to inform to the respective CHED regional office a month ahead on the nature of the education tour or field trips. The memo also states that a prior consultation with the students and parents are discussed especially the risk assessment procedures.
“The Tanay tragedy is a reminder that we must be very strict in regulating the use of public transportation for school-sponsored trips,” he said. “We must also determine if HEIs comply with requirements.”
CHED will release a moratorium order on Wednesday, Feb. 22. (davaotoday.com)
