Why some students chose to file a leave of absence during the COVID crisis Written by Raizza P. Bello Updated Dec 10, 2020 4:48:26 PM enablePagination: false endIndex: The lack of openness in a more flexible learning environment as students deal with multiple crises, such as the pandemic and recent typhoon disasters, has contributed to the students’ current struggles with learning. Illustration by ZOE SABANDAL Metro Manila (CNN Philippines Life) — It started as a joke. But as classes shifted online due to the pandemic, then-University of the East Ramon Magsaysay sophomore medical student Regina Geli began seriously considering an unconventional route. Instead of pursuing her third year studies, she decided to file a leave of absence (LOA) for the current school year, choosing to refocus her energies on caring for personal well-being and returning to advocacy work.