SCHOOL Year 2023-2024 will now end earlier than expected after the Department of Education (DepEd) made adjustments to the current academic calendar. 

Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte issued DepEd Order 3 on February 19, which changed the date of the conclusion of the school year in elementary and secondary schools from June 14 to May 31. 

End of School Year (EOSY) rites such as graduation and moving up ceremonies should be held between May 29 and 31.

”However, under exceptional circumstances, the schools may conduct the EOSY rites on June 1, 2024, Saturday, only upon consultation with teachers and parents,” the order stated. 

SY 2023-2024 began on August 29, 2023. 

Meanwhile, SY 2024-2025 will start on July 29, 2024, and end on May 16, 2025. 

Also, a return to the April school break is probably feasible in two years, said DepEd spokesperson Undersecretary Michael Poa. 

“Ang tinitignan natin around 2026-2027, April 2 ‘yung last day ng class. So medyo nandoon na tayo. But if you want to go to March, I think it will be more on SY 2027-2028,” he told reporters.

The DepEd said it issued the order in light of the clamor to gradually revert the school calendar to the pre-pandemic opening of classes.