What was supposed to be a solemn and celebratory graduation ceremony turned into chaos at a senior high school in Laua-an, Antique after the school principal ordered students to remove their togas for allegedly violating Department of Education (DepEd) rules. The incident, which took place on April 15, has since gone viral.

Teachers Dignity Coalition (TDC) Chairperson Benjo Basas reacted strongly to the incident in a video message posted on April 16, emphasizing that graduation rites should focus on the students—their struggles, accomplishments, and future endeavors.

It is the duty of the school, especially the school head, to maintain the solemnity and formality of graduation ceremonies. Even if there are internal disagreements, these must be handled in the proper forums, not in a scandalous and traumatic manner, Basas said.

The principal’s abrupt decision triggered confusion and disappointment among the graduates. Tensions escalated when a teacher confronted the school head onstage—the very platform where diplomas were supposed to be distributed. The confrontation drew loud reactions from the crowd, with several students shouting and even cursing at the principal. The principal responded by instructing teacher-advisers to take note of the names of students who were being rude, a move that only intensified the unrest.

While recognizing the authority of school principals over teachers, Basas questioned how a crucial detail like student attire could have sparked such a scene. He stressed that the school head should have been fully aware of all graduation details, from program flow to guest speakers and attire, and should have addressed any issues well ahead of time.

Ang principal natin ay decisive sa school, kaya alam niya ang lahat ng detalye. Dapat pinag-usapan at pinagkasunduan muna nila ito sa simula pa lang at hindi na pinaabot pa sa mismong araw ng seremonya, Basas said.

Basas clarified that while wearing togas is not prohibited by DepEd policy, the department has long discouraged extravagant attire to avoid burdening parents—and for him, the toga has a special purpose and far from being extravagant.

Yung toga ay may cultural significance ito sa atin lalo na sa mahihirap na pamilya. Nagsisilbi itong sense of pride and inspiration sa mga bata para lalong magsumikap. Maaari kasing ito na ang una at huling pagkakataon para sa mga batang ito na makapagsuot ng toga, maaaring hindi na makapagkolehiyo ang marami sa kanila. The principal should have exercised compassion and mindfulness at that very moment and should have been considerate from the start, Basas explained.

Calling the incident unacceptable, the TDC urged the DepEd, including the Schools Division Office of Antique and Regional Office VI, to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation. The group said that those who are proven responsible should be held administratively accountable to prevent similar incidents in the future.

After all, the ceremony is for the students. The best way to teach professionalism, decency, and calm to our learners is to set a good example, Basas ended. #

Reference:
Benjo Basas, National Chairperson
09273356375