Attached herewith is an unnumbered memorandum dated June 15, 2020, from Usec. Jesus L.R. Mateo, Planning, Field Operations, HROD, DepEd Central Office, relative to the Conduct of Graduation Rites During the COVID-19 Pandemic.
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Conduct of Graduation Rites During the COVID-19 Pandemic
In observance of the World Health Organization (WHO) declaring COVID-19 as a pandemic, the Department of Education (DepEd) issued DepEd Order No. 02, s. 2020, entitled Multi-Year Implementing Guidelines on the K to 12 Basic Education Program End-of-School-Year Rites, stating each school shall have the discretion to elect the date of graduation rites, taking into consideration the applicable guidelines by the Department of Health (DOH). Moreover, should the public health situation prevent the holding of this year’s rites, the schools, in consultation with the Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) leadership, may choose to reschedule or forego the holding of rites.
In line with the aforesaid and as a contribution to government efforts in mitigating the spread of COVID-19, the Department maintains that graduation and moving up rites that require face-to-face interaction shall be postponed until further notice. Schools and Community Learning Centers are highly encouraged to conduct virtual rites and other alternative non face-to-face activities to celebrate the end of the school year.
Furthermore, activities that may require face-to-face interaction and allowed through DepEd and IATF guidelines may be conducted only if the necessary health and safety precautions are strictly complied with, subject to the guidelines set for the community quarantine classification of the locality.
For schools that have yet to conduct the end of school year rites, school heads must submit to the Schools Division Superintendent (SDS) for approval their proposed process for e-graduation rites (including logistics) before conducting the event.
All DepEd officials are reminded that the safety of our learners and personnel during this period of national emergency takes precedence. Strict observance of the health and safety standards and protocols are expected from all to minimize the risk of exposure and mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
For your information and guidance.
DepEd Memorandum on the Conduct of Graduation Rites During the COVID-19 Pandemic
