DepEd-6: No protocols were violated in Boracay trip

The Department of Education Region 6 (DepEd) said no health protocols were breached in the agency’s trip to Boracay Island in Malay, Aklan last July 23, 2021.

“This Office firmly stands that it did not violate any health protocol. This however does not preempt the results of the investigation,” Dr. Ramir Uytico, DepEd-6 regional director, who was also among the officials who went to Boracay, said in an official statement issued on August 1, 2021.

According to Uytico, a team from DepEd-6 went on an official trip to Boracay last July 23 for the launching of the first-ever School Heads Academy.

But he stressed that they practiced the health protocols without question.

“As we continuously navigate this challenging scenario brought by Covid-19 pandemic, adherence to health protocols is non-negotiable. As your Regional Director and as a Champion of the Basic Education – Learning Continuity Plan, I am fully aware of my moral responsibility to lead by example thus I dutifully observe and practice these protocols without questions and reservations. Likewise, I do not condone any breach of the same,” he said.

Despite radio reports on their alleged breach of protocols, Uytico said they remained silent to respect the investigation.

He added that his office has already submitted their answers to the fact-finding investigation conducted by the Philippine National Police (PNP) and local government units (LGUs).

“This office has been silent in the midst of the raucous situation caused by misinformation not because we cowered but because we respected the investigative process.”

Uytico added that the Covid-19 pandemic has worsened due to the infodemic or an outbreak of overabundant false and unverified information which spreads like wildfire.

“Despite attempts to maliciously discredit our efforts to serve we shall continue to deliver the best service that every Champion deserves.  On a personal note, my being a disciplined and responsible person has brought me to this position of greater responsibility to serve for the greater good of every Champion so we desire to produce in this region and not to usurp the inherent power it beholds for my own pleasure,” he added.

Recently, no less than Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas revealed in his radio interviews that Dr. Uytico and other officials from DepEd went to Boracay even though one of the employees from the agency tested positive for COVID-19 before the official trip. (ERS)