Suspend Filipiniana dress code for state workers – teachers

MANILA, Philippines — A group of public school teachers has urged the Civil Service Commission (CSC) to suspend the implementation of the “impractical” Filipiniana-inspired monthly dress code for government workers.

In a letter to CSC chairperson Marilyn Barua-Yap, the Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) said that dressing up could be uncomfortable for state workers, including teachers.

The group raised concern about the CSC’s Memorandum Circular No. 16, which mandates government workers to wear an ASEAN-inspired attire every first Monday of the month and a Filipiniana outfit on the second to fourth Mondays.

The TDC highlighted the “unique” working conditions in public schools, including cramped classrooms, lack of proper ventilation and the physical demands that come with teaching.

“While we recognize the intent to promote cultural identity and professionalism, we assert that this specific mandate poses challenges, particularly for public school teachers,” TDC national chairperson Benjo Basas said.

“Teachers are not stationary. Most of us are constantly moving from one classroom to another. Unlike many office personnel who perform their tasks in air-conditioned offices, teachers endure heat, especially during the hottest months,” Basas added.

Under the memorandum circular, ASEAN-inspired attire should reflect the traditional garments of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Filipiniana outfits should embody Filipino culture, heritage and customs.

Public servants who fail to comply with the policy may face disciplinary action, the CSC said.

Although government agencies may impose the policy in May or June, the TDC said public school teachers and staff have been instructed to wear ASEAN-themed attire.

“We are coordinating with the DepEd (Department of Education) on how to respond to this matter, taking into account the context of public school teachers,” Basas said.

He said the DepEd had suggested specific uniforms for teachers, which align with their professional identity.

“The new dress code would render these uniforms obsolete and add financial burden for teachers,” Basas said.

The DepEd previously required teachers to wear four national uniforms, to be worn from Monday to Thursday. Friday has been designated as a wash day.