DepEd Principal Removed After Graduation Attire Controversy in Antique

In response to a viral graduation incident, the Department of Education (DepEd) has removed the principal of Col. Ruperto Abellon National School in Laua-an, Antique.

Claire Castro, a representative from the Palace Press Office, confirmed during a Friday briefing in Malacañang that Principal Venus Divina Nietes was relieved of her duties. This action, Castro emphasized, followed a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

"Following the President’s instructions, Secretary Sonny Angara promptly took action, resulting in the removal of the principal from her post," Castro stated.

The controversy erupted when a video surfaced online showing Nietes instructing graduating students to remove their togas, insisting that only the school uniform and “sablay” should be worn during the ceremony. This was despite DepEd Order No. 9, series of 2023, which allows the use of togas or sablays as supplementary graduation attire, in addition to school uniforms or casual/formal wear.

Castro clarified that while Nietes had been stripped of her administrative role, her professional teaching license remains unaffected for now. 

"Tinanggal lang po siya sa pagiging principal. Yung license naman po niya ay hindi naman manggagaling sa pag-uutos ng pangulo o ng DepEd secretary," she explained.

As for possible further disciplinary actions, Castro noted that decisions would depend on the guidance of Secretary Angara.

Additionally, the Presidential Communications Office disclosed that Angara had sought special permission from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to lift the election period ban on personnel movements, enabling the swift implementation of Nietes' removal.

RELEASE OF TEACHING ALLOWANCE FOR TEACHERS