The Department of Education (DepEd) is seen at its headquarters in Pasig City on February 6, 2025. Jonathan Cellona, ABS-CBN News/File

The Department of Education (DepEd) said Thursday it was investigating an incident during a graduation ceremony in Antique province, where a school head asked students to remove their togas, causing what the agency called "distress."

In a statement, the DepEd clarified it did not prohibit students from wearing togas during graduation.

"The prescribed attire for graduation and moving-up ceremonies includes casual or formal wear or the school uniform. The toga or sablay may be worn as an optional supplementary garment," the agency said, citing a memorandum and an order.

The clarification came after a video circulating on social media showed the school head appearing to order students to take off their togas during the ceremony, saying the garments were not part of the prescribed attire.

Photo from the DepEd

"The Department deeply regrets that this occasion, which should have been a moment of pride and celebration, became a source of distress for the learners and their families," the DepEd said.

"Given the incident, the Department has initiated the appropriate investigation processes to verify the facts and determine accountability, if warranted," it added.

The DepEd reminded school officials to "uphold the highest standards of professional, compassion and respect in implementing policies, ensuring at all times the protection of the rights and dignity of every learner."