Makati City, Jan. 27, 1998 - There will be no expensive togas, special apparel, receptions and elaborate stage decorations during graduation rites in Makati's public schools this year.
Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay has directed school principals to reduce expenses for both the schools and the students' parents by requiring the use of school uniforms in lieu of rented togas and brand-new graduation gowns and barong tagalog.
"Graduation rites should be regarded as a concrete expression of the resolve of students to grow intellectually, spiritually and morally. It should not be an occasion to show off and spend lavishly," Binay said.
He added that since the country is reeling from the currency crisis, then "parents need not be burdened with renting formal attire like togas which are not only an additional expense, but inappropriate during these hard times."
Reported by: Sol Jose Vanzi
© Copyright, 1998
All rights reserved