The Department of Education (DepEd) has reminded schools that electioneering and partisan political activities are strictly prohibited during graduation and moving-up ceremonies, especially ahead of the May 2025 elections.

In Department Memorandum 27, Series of 2025, DepEd reiterated that all officials, teaching, and non-teaching personnel must remain non-partisan to uphold professionalism. Teachers, who serve as election officers, are expected to facilitate polls without political bias.

The memorandum also emphasized that graduation and moving-up ceremonies should be simple yet meaningful, without excessive spending, extravagant attire, or luxurious venues. Expenses for these events should come from the school’s Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE), and collecting contributions or fees from students and parents is strictly prohibited.

DepEd further advised schools to consider holding ceremonies indoors and scheduling them at appropriate times to avoid the effects of extreme heat.