Manila: The Department of Education (DepEd) on Monday directed all public schools nationwide to keep end-of-school-year ceremonies modest and economical in response to the surging fuel prices. In a statement, Education Secretary Sonny Angara urged all public schools to refrain from unnecessary spending to alleviate the financial burdens on Filipino families.

According to Philippines News Agency, Angara emphasized the importance of prioritizing the welfare of learners by keeping graduation ceremonies simple, meaningful, and free of unnecessary expenses. Under Memorandum No. 015 series of 2026, schools were instructed to avoid renting expensive venues for end-of-school-year (EOSY) rites, instead utilizing simple venues like school grounds or covered courts.

The DepEd has also prohibited the collection of any contributions or fees for graduation and moving-up ceremonies, reminding school heads that participation in these rites should not be contingent on financial contributions. Necessary expenses for the ceremonies should be sourced from the school's Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) funds.

Angara highlighted the current challenges faced by families due to increasing transportation costs and rising prices of basic commodities. "We must ensure that this milestone remains a celebration of achievement rather than a financial ordeal for our parents, especially as we navigate the economic impact of rising fuel costs," he stated.

Furthermore, non-academic activities must not be imposed as requirements for graduation, such as field trips and prom nights. The EOSY rites are scheduled from March 30 to 31, with approximately 1.9 million Grade 6 learners and 1.8 million Grade 12 learners expected to graduate nationwide.