The Department of Education (DepEd) has reinforced its commitment to addressing workforce concerns related to uniforms by reorganizing the Department of Education Uniform Committee (DUC).
Outlined in DepEd Memorandum No. 004, s. 2025, this initiative aims to promote inclusivity and practicality in uniform policies. The reconstituted DUC is tasked with managing the selection, implementation, and evaluation of DepEd uniforms for School Years 2024-2025 and 2025-2026.
Photo courtesy: DepEd Philippines (FB)
The committee’s primary objective is to ensure that the uniforms remain professional and suitable for school environments nationwide, aligning with the Civil Service Commission Memorandum Circular No. 16, s. 2024, which updates the dress code for government employees.
Until the new internal dress code of DepEd is finalized, all field personnel are advised to adhere to DM-OUHROD-2022-0042, entitled “Wearing of the Prescribed DepEd Uniform and Office Attire.” DepEd has been given six months to draft and release internal guidelines that align with CSC’s updated policies.
“We want to foster a more inclusive, practical, and supportive approach to uniform policies. This initiative not only reflects DepEd’s responsiveness to the needs of its personnel but also its commitment to strengthening the education system for the benefit of all stakeholders,” Secretary Sonny Angara said.
The DUC will also include representatives from nine (9) national organizations and associations of teachers and non-teaching personnel, ensuring that uniform policies reflect the perspectives of key stakeholders.
The committee will be led by the Undersecretary for Human Resource and Organizational Development as Chairperson, with the Assistant Secretary for Operations serving as Vice-Chairperson.
Wearing a proper uniform in school and the office is important for several reasons. It promotes a sense of identity and unity, encourages professionalism and discipline, eliminates social and economic barriers, symbol of representation, and ensures safety and security.
Organizations must submit their designated permanent representatives by January 17, 2025, via email to bhrod.ewd@deped.gov.ph.
For further details, refer to DepEd Memorandum No. 004, s. 2025, accessible at https://www.deped.gov.ph/2025/01/08/january-8-2025-dm-004-s-2025-reconstitution-of-the-department-of-education-uniform-committee/.