DepEd to investigate viral graduation attire incident in Antique, clarifies togas are optional
The Department of Education assured that it will be investigating a viral incident in an Antique school where a principal asked its graduating students to remove their togas as it was not the "proper attire."
In a video that has since circulated on social media, the principal of Colonel Ruperto Abellon National School instructed students to take off their togas and wear their standard school uniform and handwoven sash, explaining that the togas were not the approved attire for the event.
Several students then stood up and proceeded to remove their togas.
The incident escalated when the school head, calling the dress code violation "disrespectful," asked for a list of non-compliant students. Subsequently, a school staff member confronted her, receiving cheers from the students, but was quickly pulled away by a colleague.
Acknowledging the incident, DepEd said it "deeply regrets that this occasion, which should have been a moment of pride and celebration, became a source of distress for the learners and their families."
It clarified that there is no policy under DepEd Memorandum No. 27, s. 2025 and DepEd Order No. 009, s. 2023 that prohibits the wearing of togas.
"The prescribed attire for graduation and moving-up ceremonies includes casual or formal wear or the school uniform. The toga or sablay may be worn as an optional supplementary garment," they stated.
"These guidelines were adopted to encourage simplicity, promote inclusivity, and ease the financial burden on families. However, such policies must be interpreted and implemented with discernment and never result in any learner's exclusion, embarrassment, or marginalization," it added.
DepEd has initiated an investigation to "verify the facts and determine accountability, if warranted."
It urged school officials to "uphold the highest standards of professionalism, compassion, and respect in implementing policies, ensuring at all times the protection of the rights and dignity of every learner."
As of writing, Colonel Ruperto Abellon National School has yet to issue a statement regarding the matter.
