The Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) has formally appealed to the Civil Service Commission (CSC) to reconsider the implementation of Memorandum Circular No. 16, s. 2024, citing its impracticality in public school settings.

In a letter addressed to CSC Chairperson Atty. Marilyn Barua-Yap, TDC National Chairperson Benjo Basas raised concerns about the circular, which requires government employees to wear ASEAN-inspired attire every first Monday of the month and Filipiniana-inspired attire on the second to fourth Mondays.

“While we recognize the intent to promote cultural identity and professionalism, we respectfully assert that this specific mandate poses significant challenges, particularly for public school teachers,” Basas stated in the letter.

Basas highlighted the unique realities faced by teachers, including the lack of proper ventilation in many public schools and the physical demands of their duties.

“Teachers are not stationary; most of us are constantly moving from one classroom to another or even from one building to another. Unlike many office personnel who perform their tasks in air-conditioned offices, teachers endure extreme heat, especially during the hottest months,” he explained.

The TDC also emphasized that the Department of Education (DepEd) already prescribes specific uniforms for teachers, which align with their professional identity. Basas argued that the new dress code policy would render these uniforms obsolete and force teachers to shoulder additional financial burdens to comply.

“In light of these considerations, we respectfully appeal for the suspension of this policy’s implementation or, at the very least, the adoption of practical modifications. Specifically, we request that public school teachers be exempted from the requirement to wear ASEAN or Filipiniana-inspired attire every Monday,” Basas urged.

The TDC expressed its willingness to engage in further discussions with the CSC to address the issue, emphasizing the need to prioritize the welfare of teachers and the quality of education.

The implementation of CSC MC No. 16, s. 2024, which aims to update the dress code for government employees, has drawn mixed reactions. While its proponents see it as a move to promote cultural awareness, critics like the TDC argue that such policies must consider the unique circumstances of various government sectors.

While the CSC stated that the circular may be implemented within a six-month period, many schools and offices have already compelled their teachers and staff to wear ASEAN-themed attire yesterday, January 6.

“We are also coordinating with the DepEd on how to respond to this matter, taking into account the context of our public school teachers,” Basas concluded.

The DepEd has previously prescribed four national uniforms for its teachers, to be worn from Monday to Thursday, with Friday designated as a wash day.#

For details:
Benjo Basas, National Chairperson
09273356375