DepEd orders simple, no-cost graduation rites amid fuel price surge
Margret Dianne Fermin • Ipinost noong 2026-03-23 16:50:18
The Department of Education (DepEd) has ordered all public schools nationwide to conduct simple, low-cost graduation and moving-up rites for School Year 2025–2026, citing the impact of rising fuel prices on Filipino families.
Nearly 3.7 million learners are expected to graduate this year, and schools are strictly prohibited from collecting fees or requiring extravagant expenses.
DepEd issued Memorandum No. 015, series of 2026, directing schools to avoid lavish ceremonies, costly venues, and unnecessary contributions from students or parents. Education Secretary Sonny Angara explained that the measure is aligned with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to ease the financial burden on families amid the continuing rise in petroleum prices.
“Graduation rites should remain modest, meaningful, and accessible to all learners,” Angara said.
The memorandum reiterates DepEd’s No Collection Policy, ensuring that participation in graduation rites will not depend on financial contributions. Schools are encouraged to use school grounds or covered courts as venues to avoid rental costs and to keep ceremonies simple yet dignified.
According to DepEd, around 1.9 million Grade 6 pupils and 1.8 million Grade 12 students from both public and private schools are projected to complete their respective levels this school year. The directive ensures that all learners can join their graduation rites without added financial strain.
The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) welcomed the move but urged DepEd to allocate a dedicated budget for graduation ceremonies to further reduce expenses for schools and families. ACT also reiterated its call to increase the Personnel Economic Relief Allowance (PERA) for teachers, citing the impact of rising fuel costs on their daily expenses.
This policy reflects DepEd’s broader effort to balance tradition with practicality, ensuring that graduation remains a meaningful milestone while protecting families from unnecessary costs during a period of economic strain. By simplifying rites, the department aims to uphold inclusivity and fairness, allowing every student to celebrate their achievement without financial barriers.