DepEd allows schools to decide on graduation rites amid COVID-19 threat

The Department of Education (DepEd) has allowed public schools and parents to decide on postponing, canceling, or proceeding with graduation ceremonies, considering the COVID-19 threat.

Schools can proceed if they can strictly implement health guidelines and control crowd sizes, adhering to social distancing measures.

However, graduation rites in Metro Manila will be rescheduled due to the region's community quarantine.

In Negros Occidental, Governor Eugenio Lacson ordered the suspension of all graduation and moving-up ceremonies in private and public schools until further notice.

This decision in Negros Occidental follows the threat posed by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-2019) and aims to protect the people from the possible spread of the viral disease.

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Negros Occidental also urged DepEd to end the school year earlier and suspend classes.

This directive covers end-of-school rites for Kindergarten, Grade 6, Grade 10, and Grade 12 students.