DepEd-7: Uniforms not required in public schools

CEBU, Philippines —  Students in public schools are “not required” to wear school uniforms, the Department of Education (DepEd)-7 clarified, citing efforts to ease the financial burdens of low-income families.

“Ang Department of Education, wala nag-demand ug wala nag-require nga ang atong mga bata kinahanglan mag-uniform,” said DepEd-7 Director Salustiano Jimenez on Tuesday, June 17.

He explained that the department recognized the financial challenges many parents face, especially those from remote and marginalized communities.

However, Jimenez said that some parents voiced their willingness to buy uniforms for their children during parent-teacher association (PTA) meetings, citing safety concerns for their children.

Jimenez said these parents believed that uniforms help identify and trace students more easily.

Irene Capillan, 46, mother of a junior high school student, echoed the same sentiment. She said uniforms would help identify students who may cut classes.

While Jimenez acknowledged that the reasons are heavy and valid, he maintained that those are not enough to compel the DepEd in releasing an issuance that would require students to wear uniforms.

Abellana National School Principal Evelyn Pielago also confirmed that while most parents and students are “in favor” of wearing uniforms, students can alternately wear white tops and pants for comfort.

Meanwhile, Jimenez welcomed possible initiatives from local government units (LGUs) and private donors who may provide uniforms, school supplies, or appropriate footwear for students.

“Akoa nang gi-kuan [sulti] karon kay basin naay makadungog nato nga mga barangay captains, mga mayor, [nga] manghatag og uniforms sa ilang mga constituents nga mga estudyante,” said Jimenez. ”So nindot kaayu na. That’s a very welcoming development.”

The optional uniform policy has been imposed pursuant to the DepEd Order  65, s. 2010, highlighting that wearing of school uniforms shall not be required in public schools, while students with existing uniforms may continue using them. - CNU Intern Reynan Monleon/JG (CEBU NEWS)