DAVAO CITY — The Department of Education (DepEd) Region XI is under fire after reports surfaced that graduation medals distributed to students carried the name and image of a politician, triggering widespread criticism from various sectors and raising concerns over political neutrality in schools.
What should have symbolized academic achievement and perseverance has instead ignited controversy, with critics condemning what they describe as the inappropriate use of school recognition items for political branding.
The issue came to light following a disclosure by DepEd Region XI spokesperson Dodong Atillo, who confirmed that policies prohibiting the inclusion of politicians’ names and images on school-related materials had been “relaxed,” citing that it is currently outside the election period.
The statement has drawn sharp reactions from the public, with educators, parents, and civil society groups questioning the agency’s stance and the apparent inconsistency in enforcing ethical standards.
“Since when did ethics become seasonal?” one critic remarked, echoing a growing sentiment online. Observers argue that the protection of students from political influence should not hinge on the election calendar, stressing that public schools must remain spaces free from any form of political promotion at all times.
Graduation medals, they emphasized, are meant to honor the hard work, discipline, and dedication of students—not serve as platforms for advancing the visibility of public officials. The presence of a politician’s face on such items, they said, undermines the integrity of academic recognition and blurs the line between public service and self-promotion.
“This sends the wrong message to our students,” a concerned parent said. “It suggests that even their achievements can be co-opted for someone else’s gain.”
Critics further warned that the incident reflects a broader issue of so-called “epal politics,” where public officials insert themselves into projects and programs for credit and exposure, even in spaces that should remain neutral and merit-based.
They also pointed to DepEd’s response as troubling, saying that the justification of a “relaxed policy” indicates a failure to uphold consistent standards and may signal tolerance for political intrusion in the education system.
“The moment a politician’s name or face appears on a graduation medal, the line is not just blurred—it is erased,” one education advocate said.
As of writing, DepEd Region XI has yet to issue a follow-up statement on whether it will investigate the incident or take corrective action.
The controversy has intensified calls for the agency to reaffirm its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of public education and to ensure that student achievements remain free from political influence—regardless of the election cycle.