The Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday said it entirely supports the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) policy allowing unvaccinated students and teachers to attend in-person classes.
In a press statement, the DOH said it convened with CHED and health experts on Aug. 29 to discuss the scientific bases of the policy update.
It cited that data shows about 77 percent of students and 90 percent of the higher education institutions (HEIs) personnel are fully vaccinated.
It also stated data indicated that compared to the other age group, there is less infection in the age group of 18-25 — the average age of tertiary students.
“Our COVID-19 response is dynamic, and always follows the latest scientific recommendations available. The benefits of in-person and face-to-face schooling now outweigh the risk of COVID-19 infections,” DOH Officer-in-Charge Maria Rosario Singh-Vergeire said.
But even if proof of vaccination is no longer required, Vergeire said all eligible individuals are urged to get their vaccination and boosters.
“Let us keep the wall of immunity strong,” she added.
The health department said the Philippines joins at least five other countries that took into consideration the significance of face-to-face classes for college students, given scientific bases.
It said the countries that withdrew vaccine requirements for HEI students and personnel are as follows: Australia, the United Kingdom (but strongly encouraged), Canada (strongly recommended for congregate student-living settings), New Zealand, and Singapore (but unvaccinated students require biweekly testing for indoor dining).
On Monday, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) announced that it removed the COVID-19 vaccination requirement, now allowing vaccinated and unvaccinated college students and personnel attend face-to-face classes.
CHED chairperson J. Prospero de Vera III said the decision to revise the policy was made upon consultation with health experts and the commission's study on certain trends in other countries.
