Guidelines on the Celebration of Christmas in Schools: Understanding DepEd Order No. 052, s. 2022

The Department of Education (DepEd) issued DepEd Order No. 052, s. 2022, titled “An Order Providing for the Guidelines in the Celebration of Christmas within the Department of Education.” This Order serves as the latest national policy governing how Christmas celebrations—including school Christmas parties—should be conducted in both DepEd offices and public schools. The guidelines aim to promote simplicity, ensure financial prudence, and uphold inclusivity across all DepEd institutions.

Purpose of the Order

The Order was crafted to ensure that Christmas celebrations remain simple, meaningful, and consistent with the values of the Department. It reinforces that schools should avoid practices that cause unnecessary expenses or create pressure on learners, teachers, and parents.

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Key Provisions of DepEd Order No. 052, s. 2022

Below is a clear and organized list of the major provisions stated in the Order:

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1. Celebrations Must Be Simple, Modest, and Meaningful

DepEd emphasizes that Christmas observances should avoid lavish or extravagant spending. Activities should reflect the spirit of simplicity and stewardship.
✔ No elaborate decorations
✔ No extravagant programs
✔ Avoid costly productions or events

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2. No Forced or Mandatory Contributions

The policy strictly states that all contributions—whether in cash or in kind—must be voluntary.
✔ No teacher, parent, or learner should be required to pay fixed amounts
✔ No solicitation or quotas for class parties
✔ No pressures for gift-giving among teachers or students

This protects families from financial burden, especially during the holiday season.

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3. Academic Activities Must Not Be Disrupted

Christmas events and parties must not interfere with scheduled teaching and learning activities.
✔ Classes should continue as planned
✔ Any celebration must be scheduled without affecting instructional time

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4. Inclusive and Respectful Activities

Schools must ensure that celebrations are inclusive of all learners, regardless of cultural or religious background.
✔ Respect diverse beliefs
✔ Avoid activities that exclude or discriminate

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5. No School Funds Should Be Used for Parties

School funds—particularly those allocated for operations, learning resources, or student programs—must not be used to finance Christmas parties or celebrations.
✔ No use of MOOE for parties
✔ No tapping of official school budgets for food, prizes, or décor

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6. Personal Expenses Should Be Reasonable

Teachers and school personnel should minimize personal spending on Christmas activities.
✔ No expensive parties
✔ No costly attire or costumes
✔ Avoid unnecessary financial expectations

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7. Gift-Giving Should Be Simple and Optional

If schools choose to conduct gift exchanges, they must follow the principle of modesty and voluntariness.
✔ No expensive gift requirements
✔ Participation is optional
✔ No “gifts for teachers” collection imposed on students

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8. Reiteration Through 2024–2025 Memoranda

DepEd regional offices have reaffirmed these guidelines—particularly the call to scale down Christmas festivities in solidarity with communities affected by natural calamities.
✔ Celebrations may proceed but must stay modest
✔ Savings from scaled-down activities may be redirected to relief efforts

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Conclusion

DepEd Order No. 052, s. 2022 provides a clear framework for simple, inclusive, and financially responsible Christmas celebrations in schools. By emphasizing voluntary participation, modest spending, and uninterrupted learning, the Order ensures that Christmas activities reflect compassion, sensitivity, and the true spirit of the season.

This policy continues to be the primary national guideline for all DepEd schools and offices, reaffirmed through recent memoranda in 2024 and 2025. Schools that follow these provisions help create a joyful yet mindful celebration for teachers, learners, and the entire school community.