From constant disinfection to stricter entry rules, the Holy Cross College administration has implemented firmer health protocols within the perimeter. This, after the Department of Health has reported a surge in Covid-19 cases, local transmission of the Delta variant and entry of the Lambda strain in the country.
In Pampanga, there were 4,749 active Covid-19 cases, according to an August 23 report by the Provincial Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit. 452 are from Sta. Ana town, where Holy Cross College is located.
The entire province has been placed under Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ) until August 31. Last August 15, Pampanga recorded 377 infected individuals, the highest number of Covid cases in the province since the pandemic started.
Due to these developments, the school administration carried out stricter health protocols. Entrance to the school is limited to employees who cannot fulfill their duties and functions at home. Staff from the Integrated Basic Education Department, Senior High School Department and College Department are currently working from home. Other departments operate with a skeletal workforce.
There have also been changes in some transactions. Students who are still claiming their Tertiary Education Subsidy refund are not allowed to enter the school grounds. The same goes for students or teachers who have transactions in the school. The office of the registrar has set up a makeshift office near the school entrance, across the parking area.
The venue for ID picture-taking has also been transferred to the Junior High School building.
Everyone who enters the school should have a normal body temperature. 
A contactless sanitation area is stationed at every entry point of the school. 
Employees, students and visitors are required to fill up a contact tracing form. 
All transactions are done in a designated area. Only authorized employees are allowed inside the school grounds.
A school nurse is stationed at the school’s main entrance for a physical assessment of employees and visitors. Everyone entering the HCC gates is required to undergo a body temperature scan and fill up a contact tracing form. All must wear a face mask and face shield within the school.
The Health and Sanitation Services Division regularly disinfects school facilities through misting and UV light.
Keeping the school with a heart safe and virus-free. 
Keeping the school with a heart safe and virus-free.
REMINDERS ON HEALTH AND SAFETY PROTOCOLS
Holy Cross College prioritizes the safety and health of its students and staff, especially during this health crisis.
Here are a few tips on protecting yourself and your family from Covid-19:
1. Wash your hands.
Wash your hands regularly using clean running water and soap for at least 20 seconds. If water and soap are not available, sanitize your hands using alcohol or hand sanitizer with 70% solution.
2. Wear your face mask.
Always wear a clean face mask. If possible, wear a cloth mask over a medical mask. Make sure that the mask covers your nose and mouth. Wear a face shield if needed.
3. Practice social distancing.
Maintain a six-feet distance from other people. Avoid crowded places and places with little to no ventilation.
4. Practice proper cough etiquette.
You may cough or sneeze in your mask, but make sure to replace it when you are done. Dispose of the mask properly. If you are not wearing a mask, use tissue paper or the inside of your elbow to cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. Dispose of the tissue paper properly.
5. Sanitize your surroundings.
Regularly clean and disinfect your surroundings, especially high-contact areas like doorknobs, mobile phones, computers, light switches, faucets, etc.
6. Get vaccinated.
Covid-19 vaccines have been proven to significantly lower the risk of getting infected with the coronavirus. Don’t hesitate to get the shot to protect yourself and your family. If you’re already vaccinated, you should still strictly observe health and safety protocols.
Holy Cross College’s doctors and nurses are available for teleconsultation. Students or employees showing signs or experiencing symptoms of any illness may reach them through the department’s Facebook page.
For any questions or concerns, message us on our official Facebook page.
