Rama won’t bar poll bets from graduation rites

CEBU, Philippines - Mayor Michael Rama said he will not stop politicians who wish to attend the graduation exercises in different public schools in Cebu City, but advised them not to engage in campaigning.

“Dili nato na sila mapugngan uy. Nganong pugngan man nato, ila ‘nang katungod,” Rama said in his press conference yesterday.

Officials of the Department of Education earlier warned the candidates of the May 13 elections not to use the graduation rites to campaign or explain their political views.

DepEd Secretary Armin Luistro earlier issued a memorandum reminding the school administrators that graduation rites should be conducted as an appropriate and solemn ceremony befitting the graduating students and their parents, and shall not be used as political forum.

For his part, Rama said he, as mayor of the city, can speak during the graduation exercises to give a message to the graduates.

Reelectionist Vice Mayor Joy Augustus Young, who is also the chairman of the City Council’s committee on education, is also entitled to speak during graduation ceremonies.

This year’s graduation theme is “Building the Nation’s Future Leaders Through the K to 12 Basic Education Program.”

Meanwhile, Rama told parents of students who are set to graduate to make their children happy by giving them something.

Rama issued the statement after he was informed that some parents are complaining because the Parents-Teachers Associations in their respective schools are requesting payment for the students’ toga and food.

Luistro’s directive is that there should be no special attire or extravagant venue for the graduation rites, and any contribution for the yearbook should be on a voluntary basis.

The mayor showed reporters a photograph of him taken during his graduation from elementary where he was wearing a new pair of shoes.

“Gipalitan g’yud ko’g sapatos sa akong ginikanan kay pag-eskwela nako magsul-ob ra man tawon ko og sinelas,” Rama said.

The DepEd order also provides that the collection of graduation fees or any kind of contribution is definitely prohibited, and funds to be used for the graduation should be sourced from PTA donations.

The non-academic projects should not be imposed as requirements for graduation.   (FREEMAN)