The Department of Education (DepEd-6) has reiterated a strict ban on any collection of funds from students or parents for graduation and moving-up ceremonies for School Year 2025–2026 in all public schools across Western Visayas.
The directive, issued through DepEd Memorandum No. 015, s. 2026, prohibits contributions or fees from students and teachers for end-of-school-year activities.
This follows the long-standing “No Collection Policy” under DepEd Order No. 19, s. 2008, which applies to all public elementary and secondary schools.
During a press briefing on March 11, DepEd-6 regional director Cristito Eco emphasized that expenses for graduation rites should be covered by the school’s Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE), not from students or parents.
“Mandatory collections place an unnecessary financial burden on families and may even discourage student participation,” he said.
Eco clarified that any fundraising efforts initiated by parent-teacher associations (PTAs) must be strictly voluntary.
“Parents should never feel obligated to contribute. Voluntary support is welcome, but compulsory fees are not allowed,” he stressed.
The department warned that schools violating this policy may face administrative sanctions if evidence of unauthorized collections emerges.
According to DepEd-6 data, end-of-school-year ceremonies for Kindergarten, Grade 6, Grade 10, and Grade 12 are scheduled on March 30 and 31.
Curriculum and Learning Management Division Chief Donald T. Genine advised that graduation and moving-up events should remain simple yet meaningful.
Extravagant expenses, including costly outfits, rented venues, or additional activities, are unnecessary.
Non-academic activities such as field trips, film screenings, or junior-senior proms should not be required for completion or graduation.
This year’s graduation theme, “Filipino Graduates: Prepared to Lead with Competence and Character,” reflects DepEd’s focus on fostering both academic and personal growth.
Data from the Learner Information System shows that 821,042 students in Western Visayas are expected to advance to the next grade level, while 170,767 students are set to graduate—83,781 from Grade 6 and 86,986 from Grade 12.
DepEd also recommended holding ceremonies in well-ventilated indoor or covered venues and avoiding the hottest hours of the day to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants.
By reinforcing the “No Collection Policy,” DepEd VI seeks to make end-of-school-year celebrations inclusive, meaningful, and stress-free for all students and families.IMT
