WITH face-to-face classes targeted to resume this year with the implementation of alert level 2 as COVID-19 cases continue to decline, the Philippine Red Cross yesterday shared some tips on how students can prepare for face-to-face classes.

Sen. Richard J. Gordon, PRC chairman and CEO, reminded students that they should be armed with updated information so they can be more aware of their responsibilities and be safe amid the continued pandemic.

Gordon stressed the need to religiously comply with minimum public health standards such as wearing a mask, observing physical distancing, and washing/disinfecting hands regularly.

“Ang mga protocol ay dapat manatili pa rin kahit na nabakunahan ka na dahil patuloy pa rin ang pandemya,” he said.

The PRC chief also underscored the need for transparency to ensure everyone’s safety and well-being.

“Dapat lagi tayo maging tapat upang maging safe ang lahat. Mahalagang magsalita ng maayos sa iyong mga kasama lalo na sa panahon ng pandemya upang maayos na maipatupad ang lahat ng mga patakaran,” he said.

Gordon also advised students to learn about their school’s counseling services, as studies showed that the pandemic heightened anxiety and depression.

“Let us look after our mental health and, at the same time, be more empathetic. Showing a little kindness can go a very long way towards keeping our loved ones and our community healthy and safe in the face of unprecedented pressures,” he said.

The PRC chairman also pointed to the need to keep one’s self healthy by regularly engaging in physical activity, getting adequate rest, and eating nutritional meals.

Lastly, Gordon stressed the need to get vaccinated to protect one’s self and everyone around him.

“I want to stress the need for vaccination and the urgency for individuals to get vaccinated to curb the ongoing pandemic. By getting vaccinated, we are one step closer to winning our war against COVID-19,” he reiterated.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Lee Ann P. Ducusin