THE Department of Education (DepEd) on Wednesday reminded parents and school officials that while educational field trips are meant to supplement classroom learning, students should not be forced to join such outings. The DepEd issued the statement following the bus accident in Tanay, Rizal province that killed more than a dozen students. In an order addressed to heads and principals of public and private elementary and secondary schools, the DepEd said students who cannot join field trips should not be punished by putting them at a disadvantage academically. Teachers should refrain from conducting tests based on these field trips, and students should be given activities in school as substitute for not joining the trip. The Commission on Higher Education on Tuesday imposed a moratorium on field trips and educational tours in all private and public colleges and universities.

Source: Manila Times February 22, 2017 09:22 UTC