DepEd tells teachers not to engage in politics in graduation rites

Metro Manila, Philippines - Teachers and non-teaching personnel are prohibited from engaging in political activities during graduation and moving up ceremonies, the Department of Education (DepEd) said.

In a memorandum dated March 21, Education Secretary Sonny Angara reminded all DepEd personnel to disassociate from electioneering or any form of campaigning for the May 12 polls.

He also advised the agency’s teaching and non-teaching staff to adhere to existing policies barring teachers from engaging in politics.

Under a department order released in 2018, partisan political activities include receiving direct and indirect contributions, soliciting votes and pledges for and against a candidate, and being consistently present in political rallies, among others.

The DepEd also said teachers and non-teaching staff are not allowed to collect fees for graduation and moving up rites, noting that this should be charged to the school’s maintenance and other operating expenses.

According to the agency, the end-of-school year ceremonies set on April 14 and 15, should be simple and meaningful.

“Graduation and moving-up ceremonies shall be conducted without excessive spending, extravagant attire, and extraordinary venues,” it said.