The Department of Education (DepEd) has reminded school officials and education personnel to refrain from engaging in any form of electioneering or partisan political activities during the upcoming graduation and moving-up ceremonies for School Year 2024-2025
In a memorandum dated March 21, signed by DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara, the department stressed the importance of maintaining professionalism and political neutrality in educational settings, especially with the approach of the 2025 National and Local Elections.
The education department reiterated the provisions of DepEd Order No. 048, s. 2018, which prohibits all DepEd officials, teaching, and non-teaching personnel from engaging in electioneering or partisan political activities during the ceremonies.
The End-of-School-Year Rites for Kindergarten, Grade 6, Grade 10, Grade 12, and Alternative Learning System learners who have met the necessary curriculum requirements will be held on April 14-15.
The theme of this year’s ceremonies, “Henerasyon ng Pagkakaisa: Kaagapay sa Bagong Pilipinas” (Generation of Unity: Partners for the New Philippines), highlights the collective efforts needed to build a more united and progressive nation.
DepEd also emphasized that the ceremonies should be simple yet meaningful, reminding schools not to overspend or opt for extravagant venues or attire.
It clarified that non-academic activities, such as field trips, Junior-Senior Promenade, and other off-campus events, should not be imposed as graduation or completion requirements.
To cover ceremony-related expenses, DepEd reminded schools to use their Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) fund, in accordance with existing guidelines.
The department also reiterated that no fees or contributions should be collected from students and their families for the ceremonies.
In addition, DepEd advised schools to hold the ceremonies in indoor venues with proper ventilation or covered courts to protect attendees from extreme heat.
Schools were also urged to avoid scheduling the rites during the hottest parts of the day to ensure the comfort and safety of students, faculty, and guests.