DepEd allows physical End-of-School Year rites for schools in Alert Level 1, 2

 March 25, 2022 – The Department of Education (DepEd) is set to allow physical End-of-School Year (EOSY) rites in schools located in Alert Level 1 and 2 areas.

In the latest EduAksyon Press Conference on Friday, the Department announced that limited face-to-face graduation will be allowed for schools in Alert Level 1 and 2 areas, in consultation with the LGU, schools, and CLCs with strict compliance with IATF protocols.

“With the continuous downward trend of COVID-19 cases and easing of restrictions, we are allowing the conduct of limited face-to-face and virtual graduation, depending on the alert level status in each region,” Education Secretary Leonor Magtolis Briones said.

For schools in Alert Level 3, 4, and 5, DepEd said it will only allow virtual EOSY rites. Schools may broadcast live the virtual EOSY rites through an appropriate social media platform.

Schools nationwide are set to conduct EOSY rites from June 27 to July 2, 2022, following the end of the school year on June 24, 2022, while private schools may implement the schedule as reflected in their respective school calendars.

However, schools, divisions, or regions with an extended school year due to suspension of classes shall be guided by their approved revised school calendar.

“Pinaalalahan lang po natin yung number of school days, dapat tumupad sa batas natin under RA 11480. For private schools yung kanilang number of school days at yung pagtatapos nila, they shall be guided by their approved school calendar,” Assistant Secretary for Curriculum and Instruction Alma Ruby C. Torio emphasized.

The theme of the SY 2021-2022 EOSY rites is “Gradweyt ng K to 12: Masigasig sa mga Pangarap at Matatag sa mga Pagsubok” (K to 12 Graduates: Pursuing Dreams and Fostering Resilience in the Face of Adversity).

“Only the completers, their parents/guardians, teachers, school officials, and guests shall be present during the virtual rites to ensure the protection and safety of everyone,” Asec. Torio remarked.

DepEd also reminded everyone that EOSY rites should be conducted in a solemn and dignified manner and shall not be used as a political forum, in line with DO 48, s. 2018 titled, Prohibition of Electioneering and Partisan Political Activity. Guest speakers must focus their messages on the theme of this year’s EOSY rites and must be advised not to campaign for anyone or any political party.

“The End-of-School Year (EOSY) rites must not be used as a political forum for candidates or political parties,” Asec. Torio emphasized.

Schools shall make sure that no election-related paraphernalia, such as streamers, posters, stickers, or other election-related items, are distributed within the school premises or online.

Source: DepEd