Antique: The Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division of Antique is investigating an incident in which a school principal allegedly ordered graduating Senior High School students to remove their togas during their graduation ceremony.

According to Philippines News Agency, the incident occurred at the Col. Ruperto Abellon National School (CRANS). DepEd Antique has formed an investigation team and requested an incident report and intervention plan from the school head, Principal II Venus Divinia Nietes, and other relevant officials. A video capturing the incident during the April 15 end-of-school-year ceremony has been circulating on social media.

DepEd Antique Information Officer Eric Cortejo stated that Nietes reportedly acted because she believed the ceremony did not follow the DepEd Order 9, which emphasizes simplicity and meaningfulness, and the 'No Collection' policy, which prohibits students from spending money during graduation, including on togas.

Dr. Edward Ba±a, from the Curriculum Implementation Division, leads the fact-finding team established by Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Nicasio Frio. The team includes the Learners' Rights and Protection focal person and a legal officer. "The top priority of the fact-finding team is the learners' rights and protection," Cortejo emphasized.

Cortejo confirmed that the 249 senior high school students are officially graduates for the school year 2024-2025, as their graduation status had been confirmed prior to the incident. He reassured that students would receive their diplomas and other credentials without issue.

Furthermore, DepEd Antique has committed to implementing measures to support the mental and psychological well-being of the affected students.