Education Secretary Jesli Lapus reiterated Monday that school graduation ceremonies must be kept simple, solemn and away from partisan politics.  
 
Lapus issued the statement to belie some media reports that DepEd has imposed a ban on the holding of political events in schools.
 
"The report was wrongly interpreted," Lapus said.  "There is no ban on anyone. There are long existing orders on the holding of austere and simple graduation ceremonies in elementary and high schools and that this special event is for parents, students and teachers."
 
The policy has been in effect over the years and was not a knee-jerk reaction or related to ZTE witness Rodolfo "Jun" Lozada Jr.'s rounds in several colleges and universities in Metro Manila. He said that the DepEd's mandate and intention is to look after the safety and well-being of elementary and high school students.
 
Under the Constitution, the State is mandated to recognize the role of the youth in nation building.  It is duty bound to promote and protect the physical, moral, spiritual, and intellectual well-being of the youth.  DepEd, as the agency tasked with providing basic education, is at the forefront of developing patriotism and nationalism.  
 
The State is duty bound to encourage the involvement of the youth in public and civic affairs. DepEd encourages discussion of national issues within the confines of the classrooms instead of exposing students to street rallies and mass actions that pose physical harm and disrupt class learning.
 
"Political discussions are done academically as part of their lessons.  Elementary and high school kids are minors who need a nurturing and creative atmosphere for growth and learning. Recruiting these school kids for activities outside the school will gravely affect their study hours especially now when classes are about to end," Lapus said.
 
Lapus said that any participation by students or teachers at political gatherings outside of class hours is for them to decide.  The students need to seek permission from their parents and for teachers to ensure that proper supervision is made. Involvement in such activities must be done in accordance with the rule of law and the context of respect and tolerance.  
 
"Academic freedom properly appreciated takes place in institutions of higher learning where older and mature students are better informed and can clearly grasp issues," he added.