DepEd denounces fake news on suspension of in-person classes

The Department of Education (DepEd) denounced yesterday misinformation spreading on social media that face-to-face classes are canceled until December.

- EVELYN MACAIRAN

In its official Facebook page, the DepEd alerted the public on a number of misleading posts being spread via social media, and showed two examples of false information stating that there would be no face-to-face classes until December.

In one of the fake posts, at the bottom of the image were the words “DepEd Advisisore (sic).”

Alleged logos of government agencies and news outlets were also seen on these bogus posts.

A third news post falsely reported online and modular classes will run from Oct. 13 to 17, due to an alleged threat of a magnitude 7.6 earthquake.

"The DepEd is reminding the public to be careful and discern the information posted online," it said.

"Let us fight fake news, do not follow the pages of those that are spreading false news... immediately report them," DepEd added.

Regarding the suspension of faceto-face classes in Metro Manila on Oct. 13 and 14, DepEd yesterday said it was to give way to structural inspections and to ensure the safety and health of students and teachers. In a statement, DepEd said during the two-day preventive class suspensions, they would be conducting structural inspection of school buildings and assess if they would be able to withstand strong earthquakes.

The two-day break will also be a time to protect students and teachers against sickness.