PTAs prohibited from ‘partisan politics’ in schools: DepEd

MANILA – The Department of Education (DepEd) on Friday clarified that all school-based organizations, including Parents-Teachers Associations (PTA), are subject to their policies and are prohibited from engaging in “any partisan political activity within school premises.”

In a statement, the DepEd said PTAs are required to “adhere to all existing policies and implementing guidelines” issued by the DepEd as stated in DepEd Order No. 54 series of 2009.

“The PTA shall serve as a support group and as a significant partner of the school whose relationship shall be defined by cooperative and open dialogue with stakeholders to promote the welfare of the students,” the order read.

It said the order requires all PTA activities within school premises or which involve the school, its personnel, or students to have “prior consultation and approval of the school head.”

“We continue to recognize and value the partnership of the community, our parents, our teachers, and our school administration in ensuring the delivery of quality basic education for all of our learners,” the DepEd said.

This came after a campaign rally of presidential bet Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. at the Guimbal Stadium in Iloilo City — said to be privately owned by the PTA of The Guimbal National High School — was canceled amid complaints of using a public facility for an election campaign.

The DepEd regional office has since demanded an explanation from authorities of the school.

In response to the outcry, Iloilo 1st District Rep. Janette Garin said the facility was owned by the school’s PTA, which, she said, “is a private entity.”

She added that it was her husband who prepared the event, not the school’s principal, and the Marcos camp has since decided to cancel indefinitely.