The DepEd removes Antique school principal from her position after a viral graduation issue that outraged students, parents, and even reached President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. This controversy happened at Col. Ruperto Abellon National School (CRANS) in Laua-an, Antique, during the End-of-School-Year (EOSY) ceremony on April 15, 2025.

What was supposed to be a day of celebration for graduates turned into a national controversy.

What Sparked the Graduation Gown Controversy?

During the ceremony, Principal Venus Divinia Nietes instructed the graduating students to remove their togas because she claimed it wasn’t part of the school’s prescribed uniform.

In a video that quickly spread on social media, Nietes can be heard saying:

“So, class, take off your togas because it is not prescribed as your uniform for graduation. Okay? So your uniform will be your ribbons and your sablay. That’s all, okay?”

This order shocked students and parents. Many students protested by chanting “toga, toga, toga” right in the middle of the ceremony. One student expressed their frustration, saying they didn’t even receive their diplomas during the event:

“Pati diploma namon gin-ukas ang sulod kag wala kami ka buol ka diploma, sir,”
(Which means they were unable to receive their diplomas at that moment.)

Imagine preparing for years just to graduate, then being asked to strip off your graduation gown in front of everyone. I can only imagine how heartbroken those students felt.

President BBM Steps In: Principal Removed

This controversy caught the attention of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.. According to Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, the President personally directed DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara to relieve Principal Nietes of her duties due to public outcry.

So, the DepEd removes Antique school principal following President BBM’s order. Nietes was stripped of her position, though her teaching license was not revoked.

Past Allegations Against the Principal

Shockingly, this wasn’t the first time Nietes faced criticism. Back in September 2023, while serving as principal of Laua-an National High School, over 500 students and more than 20 teachers protested against her leadership. They raised serious concerns like:

• Bullying
• Threats
• Abuse of authority

These past incidents show that problems with her leadership style weren’t new. It makes you wonder—should these concerns have been addressed earlier?

Even Laua-an Mayor Aser Baladjay spoke up, urging DepEd to take immediate action against Nietes, citing worries about her leadership and conduct.

DepEd Graduation Policy: What Does It Really Say?

Here’s the important part that makes this whole issue even more frustrating. According to DepEd Order No. 009, s. 2023, and Memorandum No. 27, s. 2025, the graduation attire can include:

• Casual or formal wear
• School uniform
• Toga or sablay (as optional garments)

This means wearing a toga is allowed, not banned! The principal’s decision to force students to remove their togas went directly against these policies.

How Did DepEd Respond?

The DepEd removes Antique school principal after forming a fact-finding committee through the Schools Division of Antique. This committee investigated the graduation issue, and Nietes, along with other involved school officials, had to submit an incident report and an intervention plan.

DepEd emphasized that no student should feel embarrassed, excluded, or marginalized during such important events. Graduation is supposed to be a moment of pride, not shame.

To make things right, DepEd guaranteed that:

• Students would still receive their diplomas and certificates.
• Psychological support would be provided to the affected students.

I think this is a much-needed move. Those students deserve to feel recognized and celebrated for their hard work.

Who Will Replace the Principal?

As of now, DepEd has not yet announced who will take over as the next principal of Col. Ruperto Abellon National School. This leaves a big question mark on how the school will move forward after such a scandal.

Why This Matters to All Schools

This isn’t just about one graduation gone wrong. It’s a reminder that school leaders must always respect student rights and follow policies properly. Graduations are milestones that students and their families work hard for. Mishandling them can leave emotional scars.

I’ve been to several graduations myself. They’re emotional, proud moments. Hearing about this graduation issue made me feel for those students whose big day was ruined. I hope this serves as a lesson for all school officials.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What do you think? Should there be stricter checks on school officials to prevent incidents like this? Feel free to share your thoughts!