DepEd mandates simple graduation rites amid rising fuel costs

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MAKATI CITY, 23 March 2026 – The Department of Education (DepEd) has directed all public schools nationwide to keep end-of-school-year ceremonies modest and economical in response to the recent surge in fuel prices.

Under Memorandum No. 015 series of 2026, DepEd emphasized that graduation and moving-up rites must be conducted without excessive spending or extravagant attire.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara said the initiative aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s standing directive to alleviate the financial burden on Filipino families who are currently grappling with increased transportation and commodity costs.

 

“We must ensure that this milestone remains a celebration of achievement rather than a financial ordeal for our parents, especially as we navigate the economic impact of rising fuel costs,” said Secretary Angara.

“Our schools must prioritize the welfare of learners by keeping these ceremonies simple, meaningful, and entirely free of unnecessary expenses.”

Under the memorandum, DepEd strictly prohibits the collection of any contribution or fee for graduation and moving-up ceremonies, reminding school heads that participation in the rites is not contingent on financial contributions. Schools are urged to hold ceremonies in simple venues, such as school grounds or covered courts, to avoid expensive rentals.

DepEd also clarified that non-academic activities, including field trips and prom nights, should not be made requirements for graduation. For public schools, all necessary expenses for the ceremonies are to be sourced from the school’s Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE) funds.

This year’s graduation theme, “Filipino Graduates: Prepared to Lead with Competence and Character,” focuses on the holistic education of the youth who are not only academically prepared but committed to serving their communities and the nation.

For School Year 2025-2026, around 1.9 million Grade 6 learners and 1.8 million Grade 12 learners are expected to graduate nationwide.

DepEd has scheduled all end-of-school-year activities to take place on March 30 or 31, 2026.

The 42-Year Ascent: From Humble Roots to a Global Phenomenon

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In a world where traditional religious structures often face stagnation, the story of Shincheonji Church of Jesus (SCJ) has become a narrative of relentless momentum. What began on March 14, 1984, as a small gathering driven by a singular vision, has matured into a 42-year legacy that is currently reshaping the religious landscape from South Korea to the shores of the Philippines.

Recently, this milestone was marked not just with a single service, but with a synchronized global heartbeat—a celebration of four decades of "the revealed Word" and a footprint that now spans over 100 countries.

A Symphony of Faith Across the Archipelago

The Philippines served as a vibrant stage for this 42nd anniversary, proving that the movement’s message has found fertile ground in Southeast Asia. Across 31 onsite locations, the atmosphere was electric as 1,910 members gathered in person, joined by nearly 500 others via digital streams.

From bustling city centers to remote provinces, the "Manila to Mindanao" presence of SCJ was on full display. This wasn't just a birthday celebration; it was a demonstration of a community that has scaled rapidly, transitioning from a nascent mission to a powerhouse of nearly 2,400 active participants in the Philippines alone.

The Core: The Word as an Unshakable Foundation

At the heart of the global commemoration—centered at the Cheongju Church in South Korea—was a message of uncompromising biblical fidelity. Chairman Lee Man-hee, the figurehead of the movement, addressed a sea of thousands with a directive that has become the hallmark of the church: return to the Book of Revelation.

"Faith must be grounded in the unchanging Word of God," Chairman Lee emphasized, urging members to view the Bible not as an ancient relic, but as a living roadmap being fulfilled in the modern era.

This focus on education is the engine behind the church's growth. The Zion Christian Mission Center, SCJ’s theological arm, has become a global phenomenon in its own right, producing tens of thousands of graduates annually through intensive, free Bible study courses that challenge traditional theological norms.

Beyond the Pews: A Mission of Mercy

While the theology draws people in, it is the church’s humanitarian "boots on the ground" that often defines its public image. The 42nd anniversary highlighted a track record of service that extends far beyond the sanctuary:

Life-Saving Initiatives: Record-breaking blood and plasma donation drives, particularly crucial during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Disaster Response: Rapid-response volunteer work in communities shattered by natural disasters.

Medical Missions: Direct healthcare support and aid for vulnerable sectors and the elderly.

For Shincheonji, these acts aren't mere charity; they are seen as the practical application of their faith—a "Temple of the Tabernacle" that exists to serve the world it inhabits.

A Future Without Borders

As SCJ enters its 43rd year, the trajectory is clear: expansion. With thousands of partnership agreements already signed with other churches globally, the organization is pivoting from a solitary movement to a collaborative global network.

The 42nd anniversary was more than a look back at 1984; it was a manifesto for the future. In the Philippines and beyond, Shincheonji is signaling that its "New Kingdom" is no longer a small gathering—it is a global faith that is here to stay, rooted in the Bible and refined by 42 years of explosive growth.

Photos:

Photo 1. Manila gathering for the 42nd Founding Anniversary Commemorative Service of Shincheonji Church of Jesus. 

Photo 2. Chairman Lee Man-hee delivers a message at the 42nd Founding Anniversary Commemorative Service of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, held at Cheongju Church, Shincheonji Church of Jesus. 

Photo 3. Chairman Lee Man-hee reaffirms the principle of Word-centered faith at the 42nd founding anniversary. 

Magnified Voices: A Night of World-Class Music and Entertainment

 

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The air in Mandaluyong City didn't just carry the humid evening breeze on March 22; it carried the electric charge of stars in the making. Beneath the glow of the Red Rhino Restaurant and Bar, the clink of glasses faded into a hushed, expectant silence as the lights dimmed for "Magnified Voices." This wasn’t just a recital—it was a sonic manifesto from Magnify MNL Studios, proving that world-class talent isn't found only on global stages, but born right in the heart of the Philippines.

From the soulful, stripped-back reimagining of pop anthems to the high-octane drama of Broadway’s greatest hits, the night served as a masterclass in vocal storytelling. Led by the visionary Johann Enriquez and the captivating Sheena Palad, the event transformed a local venue into a sanctuary of raw emotion and technical brilliance. Whether it was the soaring defiance of Elphaba or the smooth, rhythmic pulse of jazz, every note struck was a testament to the power of a voice truly "magnified."

Key Highlights of the Evening

The Transformation: The show opened with a powerful sequence of reinventions, ranging from Ron’s soulful take on Sarah Geronimo’s "Tala" to Seth’s jazzy, timeless "Fly Me to the Moon."

A Peek Behind the Curtain: In a unique "KARACOACHING" segment, Coach Johann Enriquez pulled back the veil on the artistry, offering the audience a rare look at the breathing and vocal intricacies that turn a singer into an artist.

The Showstoppers: The night reached a fever pitch with theatrical heavyweights, including Cara and Anya’s enchanting Frozen medley and a masterful closing performance of "Defying Gravity" by Annika Co.

Magnify MNL studios held its first vocal recital, “Magnified Voices,” at the Red Rhino Restaurant and Bar in Mandaluyong City on March 22, 2026. The event featured world-class talent from the studios.

Guests and media partners enjoyed food and refreshments. The show introduced hosts Johann Enriquez, Founder, President, CEO, and Voice Coach of Magnify MNL, and Sheena Palad, a musical artist and professional host.

The show kicked off with the hosts acknowledging media partners from Wazzup Pilipinas and Pinchlink PH Media Group. Aria then captivated the crowd with her rendition of Lauren Wood’s “Fallen”. Ron performed Sarah Geronimo’s hit song, “Tala”, giving a soulful version which captivated the crowd.

Ornella took center stage with Journey’s 1981 classic, “Don’t Stop Believin’”. Seth gave a different flavor with a jazz rendition of Bart Howard’s 1954 song, “Fly Me to the Moon”. Ethan capped off the first part of the recital with a passionate version of Regine Velasquez-Alcasid’s all-timer, “Pangarap ko”.

After a break, the show continued with its next segment. KARACOACHING voice lessons from Coach Johann showcased performers from the crowd. The session offered a sneak peek into voice and breathing tutorials, interspersed with performances from the artists, highlighting the intricacies of singing and conveying all at the same time.

Maddie captivated the audience with a powerful rendition of ABBA’s “Dancing Queen.” Cara mesmerized with a spectacular performance from “The Wicked,” with a memorable and heartfelt musical number “The Wizard and I.”

Cara’s sister, Anya, showcased her exceptional voice and expression with “For the First Time in Forever” from Frozen. Cara and Anya continued the performance, showcasing their range and artistic portrayal.

The recital concluded with Sam’s fantastic rendition of Alicia Keys’ “If I Ain’t Got You” and Annika Co’s masterful sample of “Defying Gravity” from the musical, Wicked.

Magnify MNL Studios gathered artists and performers for a photo opportunity and certificate of recognition awarding. Guests and media partners received giveaways and exclusive merchandise, capping off a great night of World Class music and entertainment.

As the final, soaring notes of "Defying Gravity" echoed against the walls of the Red Rhino, it became clear that "Magnified Voices" was more than just a debut recital—it was a definitive declaration of artistic intent. Magnify MNL Studios didn't just showcase talent; they ignited a movement, bridging the gap between raw potential and world-class mastery.

In an evening defined by soul-stirring soul, jazz-infused classics, and the high-octane drama of the musical stage, the performers didn't just sing—they commanded the room, leaving the audience and media partners breathless. As the certificates were handed out and the cameras flashed, the air remained thick with the realization that this was only the beginning. If this night was a "sneak peek," then the future of the Filipino voice is not just bright; it is undeniable. Magnify MNL has arrived, and the world had better lean in to listen.

Written by: Renz Delim and Miles Alimangohan