ILOILO City – In response to President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s call for government officials and employees to scale down Christmas celebrations and redirect savings to calamity-stricken communities, public schools, division offices, and the Department of Education (DepEd) Region 6 have committed to simple yet meaningful holiday festivities.
DepEd-6 information officer Hernani Escullar Jr. confirmed that Regional Director Ramir Uytico has issued a memorandum aligning with the presidential directive. The memo emphasizes avoiding extravagant celebrations in solidarity with Filipinos affected by six typhoons that devastated the country in less than a month.
“This is our response to the President’s call to ensure that our Christmas celebrations are modest, recognizing the hardships faced by many regions due to recent calamities,” said Escullar. “Savings from these celebrations will be directed to aid the affected areas.”
DepEd’s central office also reiterated its existing policies through DepEd Order No. 52, Series of 2022, which mandates that costs related to Christmas parties and gift exchanges must be voluntary. Furthermore, no DepEd personnel or students are required to contribute financially or provide gifts to participate in celebrations.
Key Guidelines
* Participation in Christmas parties, including themes, costumes, decorations, and gifts, must be voluntary.
* No student or staff member should be excluded for not contributing or preparing gifts.
* Celebrations should remain simple and not impose financial burdens on parents, students, or personnel.
* Cash or in-kind contributions must be strictly voluntary.
* Recycling old decorations is encouraged, while purchasing new ones is discouraged.
* Christmas parties can be held during class hours if they do not interfere with scheduled lessons.
* Solicitation of funds or materials for parties is prohibited.
DepEd also highlighted the importance of inclusivity, ensuring that even financially disadvantaged students feel the spirit of Christmas.
Schools in Western Visayas are expected to hold Christmas parties from December 15 to December 21, just before the official holiday break on December 21, as indicated in the 2024-2025 school calendar.
“We remind all division offices and schools to adhere to these guidelines from the Office of the President and DepEd,” said Escullar.
Private schools, community learning centers, and local universities and colleges are also encouraged to adopt these guidelines for their celebrations./PN
