Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak is a serious, life-threatening case which has been already declared as a pandemic (WHO, March 12, 2020)

The Philippines has already declared Code Red Sub-level 2, as President Rodrigo Duterte announces community quarantine on Metro Manila. (DOH, March 12, 2020)

Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte said, "All schools from kindergarten to post-graduate studies MUST cancel classes and IMMEDIATELY shift to online sessions and take-home assignments. All recognition ceremonies should be POSTPONED UNTIL AFTER THE PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY IS LIFTED." (No. 2, Davao City Government Guidelines No.7 for Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19), March 12, 2020)

It is a matter of urgency.

Many prestigious schools (including colleges and universities) in Davao City including AdDU, UIC, HCDC, SPC and other schools had already canceled the classes immediately (March 12, 2020) in solidarity and compliance to the City Government.

 

Unfortunately, the school will announce its final decision on MARCH 16, 2020 (MONDAY), which clearly imposes a delay and considered a burden to the students.

Students were discouraged to go to their hometowns and wait for further notice.

 

These are the parameters that the school must have been considered in canceling the examinations.

1. Students that are non-resident of DAVAO CITY.
2. The possible lockdown before the school's announcement, not only on DAVAO CITY but its neighboring cities/municipalities. (General Santos City, Digos City, Panabo City, Tagum City, and other prominent areas)
3. The situation and the outcome of the COVID-19 outbreak in the Philippines, especially on DAVAO CITY.
4. The emotional status of the student due to the outbreak.
    

As the motto of the schools says,

Ad Astra Per Aspera

 

This petition may serve as an eye-opener not only to these school administrators but also to all.

JPCEANs, let us prioritize our HEALTH, stand up and fight for our rights!

God bless and stay safe!