THE DEPARTMENT of Education has banned the holding of physical graduation rites but school officials or teachers are allowed to hand awards or diplomas to students in their homes, an official said.

DepEd Director Gilbert Sadsad in Bicol Region said that house-to-house recognition ceremony can be held.

“For example, after parents and teachers talked about the closing ceremony and the parents want to see their son or daughter wear a toga and be given certificate or medals, they can do house-to-house awarding,” he explained.

“There is a national memorandum issued by our central office signed by Secretary Briones. If ever there will be a closing ceremony this school year, it is not mandatory for them. It must be agreed and consulted with the parents and other stakeholders,” he added.

Sadsad said that teachers in the region are very creative in giving the best for their students, particularly in recognizing their hard work.