Antique: The Antique province school principal who ordered senior high school students to remove their togas during their graduation rites has been relieved from her post, Malaca±ang announced on Friday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire stated that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ordered the relief of Venus Divinia Nietes, the principal of Col. Ruperto Abellon National School (CRANS), due to her actions during the end-of-school year ceremony held on April 15.

Castro conveyed to Palace reporters that the President's directive prompted DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara to take immediate action, resulting in Nietes' removal as principal of the school. However, Nietes retains her teaching license, as she was only removed from her principal position.

The Department of Education will determine Nietes' future, as Castro noted when questioned about potential charges. She explained that Secretary Angara's next steps would be considered, emphasizing the prompt action taken by Angara in this matter.

Nietes' conduct will continue to be monitored. A video capturing the principal's request for students to remove their togas during the ceremony gained widespread attention online.

The directive was reportedly issued by Nietes due to the students' failure to comply with DepEd Order 9, which aims to keep ceremonies meaningful yet straightforward, along with the 'no collection' policy that prohibits financial contributions from students for graduation expenses, including togas.

In connection with Nietes' relief, Angara sought an exemption from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) regarding the ban on transferring public officials and employees during the election period. The Comelec approved this request on April 24.