(CNN Philippines) Metro Manila — Limited face-to-face classes for all degree programs of higher education institutions (HEIs) in areas under Alert level 3 are set to begin on Jan. 31, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) announced Tuesday.

CHED also said HEIs in Alert Level 2 areas may start limited in-person classes anytime.

“Application to CHED is not a requirement for the conduct of the limited face-to-face classes,” the commission noted.

CHED said HEIs planning to implement such “must be willing to assume the responsibilities for the reopening of their campuses” that include complying with health protocols, retrofitting facilities, and getting support from stakeholders.

Institutions must also notify their regional CHED office by submitting an accomplished self-assessment checklist and notarized affidavit of undertaking prior the start date of their limited face-to-face classes, CHED added.

If there is clustering of COVID-19 cases, the HEI’s Crisis Management Committee will decide on the preventive suspension of the limited face-to-face classes in consultation with the local task force against COVID-19.

In December 2021, colleges and universities under Alert Level 2 started their limited in-person classes.

Under existing guidelines, CHED only allows fully vaccinated students and personnel to participate in limited in-person classes. Flexible learning will still be implemented for the unvaccinated.