AN ORDER PROVIDING FOR THE GUIDELINES IN THE CELEBRATION OF CHRISTMAS WITHIN THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

This Office issues this Memorandum to reiterate DepEd Order No. 052, s. 2022 titled An Order Providing for the Guidelines in the Celebration of Christmas within the Department of Education, issued on December 2, 2022. Section 4 (c) of the Order states celebrations in schools and in DepEd offices as far as practicable, should be simple yet meaningful. Christmas party themes should not result to expenses that will become a burden on parents, students, and DepEd personnel". Further, Section 4 (d) emphasizes that "contributions for celebrations in schools or offices, whether in cash or in kind, should be strictly voluntary.

This policy emphasizes inclusivity and respect for the diverse beliefs and economic situations of all department employees and students. We ask everyone to ensure that this directive is upheld within their respective regions, promoting a culture of voluntary giving and inclusivity during the holiday season.

For wide dissemination and strict compliance.

In line with the foregoing, the following guidelines should be observed:

a. All Christmas parties, themes, costumes, decoration, and exchange gifts are voluntary. No learner or Deped personnel should be forced to contribute, participate, or use their money for the celebration;

b. No learner shall be excluded from joining the Christmas celebration by reason of their failure to give the voluntary contribution or absence of a prepared gift;

c. Celebrations in schools and in DepEd offices, as far as practicable, should be simple yet meaningful. Christmas party themes should not result to expenses that will become a burden on parents, students, and DepEd personnel;

d. Contributions for celebrations in schools or offices, whether in cash or in kind, should be strictly voluntary;

e. Old Christmas decors should be recycled, purchase of new decors are not encouraged. No learner or DepEd personnel will be required to make decors specifically for a party;

f. Christmas parties in schools may be organized within class hours so long as it does not interfere with the scheduled lesson plans intended to be taught to the students;

g. The conduct of Christmas get-togethers and other similar year-end activities should not compromise the provision of departmental services;

h. Gift-giving should be guided by the spirit of sharing and should not lead to extravagant spending;

i. DepEd personnel should be reminded that solicitations, whether in cash or in kind, are not allowed for Christmas parties or holiday celebrations.

GOOD NEWS FOR TEACHERS (READ HERE)