Ilocos region: The Department of Education (DepEd) in the Ilocos Region has reiterated its call for simple and meaningful graduation and moving-up ceremonies. This announcement emphasizes conducting these important events in a straightforward yet memorable manner.
According to Philippines News Agency, Rhoda Razon, the DepEd-Ilocos Region assistant director, conveyed in an online conference on Tuesday that even though the region is not facing an immediate crisis, officials from the Central Office have instructed school authorities to organize student graduations in the simplest way possible. While voluntary contributions are permitted, mandatory collections are strictly prohibited.
Razon also mentioned that students progressing in their grade level should attend the ceremonies in their school uniforms. Ma. Teresa Bautista, Chief Education Supervisor at the Field Technical Assistance Division, referenced DepEd Memo No. 15, Series of 2026, issued on March 4, which provides guidelines for year-end activities, including graduation and recognition ceremonies.
The memo emphasizes that these ceremonies should be simple yet meaningful, marking a significant milestone in learners' lives without incurring excessive expenses, extravagant clothing, or extraordinary venues. It also clarifies that non-academic projects, such as field trips and prom events, should not be used as graduation or completion prerequisites.
Bautista urged parents to prepare for their children's graduation while avoiding unnecessary spending. DepEd Ilocos Region's data indicates that approximately 84,180 students are expected to graduate from elementary schools, 86,291 from Junior High Schools, and 94,360 from Senior High Schools in the region for this school year.
