Graduation is one of the most important moments in a student’s life. But did you know that in DepEd public schools, there is a No Collection Policy During Graduation? This means students and parents are not required to pay for anything during graduation or moving-up ceremonies. Yes, that’s right — no fees, no required payments, and no forced contributions.

What Is the No Collection Policy During Graduation?

The Department of Education (DepEd) in the Philippines strictly implements a rule that says public schools must not collect any fees during graduation or moving-up season. This rule helps ensure that every student can join graduation activities without money being a problem.

So if you’re a parent or a student in a public school, you should not be asked to pay for:

• 🎓 Graduation or moving-up fees
• 👘 Toga (buying or renting)
• 📜 Program, invitation, certificate, or medals
• 🎁 Tokens, giveaways, flowers, and decorations
• 📸 Photo or video packages (especially if required by the school)
• 🔊 Sound system, venue, or any “contribution”

Why Is This Policy Important?

Many families are struggling with daily expenses. Forcing them to pay for graduation can cause stress and may even stop some students from attending. That’s unfair.

That’s why DepEd wants to protect all students by saying:

“No student should be left out of graduation just because they didn’t pay.“

The policy also bans the “no payment, no graduation” rule. That practice is not allowed in any public school.

What Is Allowed Under the Policy?

Some things are still okay, as long as they follow the rules. Here’s what’s allowed:

• ✅ Voluntary donations from parents or stakeholders (not required, no fixed amount, no pressure)
• ✅ Simple programs using the school’s existing resources (no need to rent venues or buy extra items)

So yes, schools can still have a nice graduation — as long as it’s simple, respectful, and free.

Real Talk: What Graduation Should Look Like

I remember when my cousin graduated from a public school. Her school used their own sound system and had a short program in their covered court. There were no fancy decorations, no photographers, and no big expenses. But it was still special. Why? Because the moment was about the students’ hard work — not about how much was spent.

That’s the heart of this policy. Graduation should be meaningful, not expensive.

What Should You Do If the School Still Asks for Payment?

If your school still asks for payments that go against the policy, you can report it. Here’s how:

1. Talk to your school head or principal.
2. If it’s not resolved, contact your Division Office.
3. You can also message DepEd through their official Facebook page or website.

Don’t be afraid to speak up. You have the right to free graduation activities in DepEd public schools.

Key Points to Remember

• 🎓 No Collection Policy During Graduation is required by DepEd in public schools.
• ❌ No one should be forced to pay for any graduation-related cost.
• ✅ Voluntary donations are allowed — but only if there’s no pressure.
• 💬 Students cannot be banned from graduation for not paying.
• 🏫 Schools must use what they already have to hold simple ceremonies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The No Collection Policy During Graduation is a strong reminder that education is a right — not a product. Graduation should be about celebrating achievements, not stressing over costs. Let’s help spread the word and support this important policy in all DepEd public schools.