Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso has ordered all public elementary and secondary schools in Manila to hold graduation ceremonies on campus, cutting expenses as global oil supply disruptions may drive up fuel and commodity prices.
During a management committee meeting, Domagoso instructed Manila Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Sheryll Gayola to eliminate “outside venue” fees, stressing that ceremonies should remain “modest and frugal”.
The mayor warned that tensions in the Middle East and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz—a critical passage for 20% of the world’s oil supply—could trigger surges in fuel prices, transport fares, and basic commodities.
“Twenty percent of our oil all over the world—and that includes the Philippines—has a problem with the source of supply,” Domagoso said, urging schools to align with conservation efforts.
The directive is in line with Executive Order No. 7, Series of 2026, which mandates a 50 percent reduction in fuel consumption across city departments.
Under the order, non-essential travel is prohibited, “lakbay-aral” (field trip) activities are suspended, and government offices must adopt electricity-saving measures, including reduced lighting and online meetings.
Domagoso emphasized that while graduation remains a milestone, “prudence and practicality must prevail in times of global uncertainty.”
“I don’t want to get ahead of myself, but just for purposes of aligning ourselves with the national direction, hangga’t maaari, mabawasan natin ‘yung mga unnecessary costs,” the mayor stated. (Odralim Villarez)
