SEPT.

25, 2013

NR # 3237

No more wearing of toga on graduation day for grade school pupils solon
Wearing of toga during graduation ceremonies for all pre-school and elementary schools graduating pupils may soon be prohibited, according to a neophyte lawmaker. Rep. Evelina Escudero (1st District, Sorsogon) filed House Bill 2374, which provides that the wearing of the graduation toga shall only be allowed in graduation rites in secondary schools, tertiary and higher educational institutions. Escudero said the practice of making mere pupils wear them contributes to the stunting of ambition in the young and their parents. The toga is a symbol of triumph, achievement and status. Allowing grade school pupils to wear a toga during graduation ceremonies will give them false impression that finishing elementary school is already a major educational achievement, Escudero said. Escudero said the practice of wearing the toga has become more and more prevalent and undoubtedly imposes an additional expense and burden on parents. We must instill ambition in our young and encourage them to strive for more education. We must help them understand that in order to have a fighting chance at success they need to at least finish secondary school, Escudero stressed. After all, in our highly competitive world, these have become the graduation rites of real significance, Escudero addeed. Under the bill, the Department of Education (DepEd) is mandated to issue the necessary rules, orders and circulars for the effective implementation of this Act. (30) lvc