FOR the first time, there will no graduation rites for Grade 6 pupils, the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Bureau of Learning Delivery-Teaching and Learning Division (BLD-TLD) confirmed.
BLD-TLD made the confirmation after Education Secretary Leonor Briones issued DepEd Order 002 series of 2019, which directs all DepEd officials that only Senior High Schools from schools with DepEd-approved K-12 transition plans and operating Senior High since 2014 and international schools with the K to 12 program can celebrate graduation ceremonies.
The order said that Kindergarten, Grade 6 and Grade 10 students will undergo only “moving up” or “completion” exercises by the end of the school year and only Senior High Schools (SHS) will have graduation ceremonies.
The order posted on the DepEd’s website at www.deped.gov.ph said Kindergarten, Grade 6 and Grade 10 students will receive certificates, while only SHS graduates will receive diplomas.
The same department order also reminded public schools to ensure that all moving up and closing ceremonies should be simple and less burdensome to parents.
Cebu Gov. Hilario Davide III and Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale have opposing opinions on the order.
Davide said Grade 6 students should still be able to march in a graduation ceremony. He said having finished the sixth grade will give the students and their parents a sense of great pride.
“For me, graduation for Grade 6 students is important. Some of these kids may not be able to proceed to high school. That’s a special milestone for children,” said Davide.
Magpale, however, said it is important to follow DepEd’s directives because the agency has reasons for this decision.
She added that the parents will not have to spend extra cash for a graduation and could instead spend this on other needs. (MVG, AZLG of SuperBalita Cebu)