GRADUATION rites should not be used as a platform to campaign for candidates, the Department of Education warned on Friday.

Assistant Secretary Alma Ruby Torio said that end-of-school-year rites should be conducted “in a solemn and dignified manner” and should not be used as a political forum.

“Invited guest speakers must focus their messages on the theme of this year’s EOSY rites. They must be advised not to campaign for anyone or any political party,” Torio said.

“Schools shall ensure that no election-related paraphernalia, such as streamers, posters, stickers, or other election-related items are distributed or displayed within the school premises or online,” she added.

For this year’s EOSY ceremonies, the theme is “K to 12 Graduates: Pursuing Dreams and Fostering Resilience in the Face of Adversity.”

The school year will end on June 24, 2022, and grad rites will be held from June 27 to July 2.

Torio said that learning institutions with an extended school year because of the suspension of classes shall be “guided by their approved revised school calendar.”