No lavish parties, DECS tells schools

Education Secretary Andrew Gonzalez urged all elementary and high schools nationwide to do away with lavish Christmas parties so students can focus on the true essence of the Yuletide season.

"We must make the Yuletide season truly meaningful. Let us celebrate this year’s Christmas in the spirit of love, peace and thanksgiving," he said.

Gonzalez noted that although the season calls for merry-making, schools should refrain from holding extravagant celebrations.

The DECS chief also warned that they do not encourage solicitations and public school officials and teachers found guilty of doing this would face sanctions.

"School authorities should be models to our students by showing to them that we can find true meaning and happiness in the Christmas season even if we celebrate it as simply as possible," he added. – Sheila Crisostomo