The Department of Education (DepEd) has directed all public schools nationwide to conduct simple and economical graduation and moving-up ceremonies for School Year 2025-2026.
The directive aims to reduce the financial burden on parents due to the recent increase in fuel and transportation costs.
The order was issued through DepEd Memorandum No. 015, series of 2026.
Why did DepEd issue the directive?
According to DepEd, the decision supports the government’s effort to help families cope with rising expenses.
Education Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized that graduation ceremonies should remain meaningful without requiring families to spend more money.
The initiative also follows the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to reduce unnecessary costs for Filipino families.
What are the rules for graduation ceremonies?
Under the memorandum, schools must follow these guidelines:
- Graduation and moving-up rites must be simple and modest
- Schools are prohibited from collecting contributions or fees
- Students cannot be required to spend on expensive attire
- Participation in ceremonies must not depend on financial contributions
Where should graduation ceremonies be held?
Schools are encouraged to conduct ceremonies in affordable venues such as:
- School grounds
- Covered courts
- Other school facilities
This helps avoid additional costs for venue rentals.
Are other activities required for graduation?
DepEd clarified that non-academic activities are not required for graduation.
These include:
- Field trips
- Prom nights
- Other school events
Students may still graduate even if they do not participate in these activities.
Also Read: Marcos Approves Shift to Three-Term School Calendar for SY 2026-2027
Where will the expenses come from?
For public schools, all necessary expenses for graduation ceremonies will be taken from:
- Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) funds
This ensures that parents will not be required to pay additional fees.
Graduation theme for SY 2025-2026
The official theme for this year’s graduation is:
Filipino Graduates: Prepared to Lead with Competence and Character.
Graduation schedule
DepEd has scheduled the end-of-school-year ceremonies on the following dates:
- March 30, 2026
- March 31, 2026
Around 1.9 million Grade 6 learners and 1.8 million Grade 12 learners are expected to graduate nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To reduce the financial burden on parents due to rising fuel and living costs.
No. Schools are strictly prohibited from collecting contributions or fees.
No. These activities are not required for graduation.
On March 30 or March 31, 2026.
“Filipino Graduates: Prepared to Lead with Competence and Character.”
Also read: DepEd’s New Trimester System: The Official School Calendar for SY 2026-2027