Learners need not wear school uniforms in any distance learning approach they would participate in for School Year 2020-2021, the Department of Education (DepEd) said Tuesday.

The department made the statement after a television report said it encourages public school students to wear school uniforms or proper clothing to prevent cases of bullying.

“Even before the pandemic, it is not a strict requirement for public schools to wear uniform (under) DepEd Order No. 065 series 2010 to avoid incurring additional cost to the families of our learners,” the statement read.

It added that with face-to-face classes prohibited, “learners are welcome to wear their most comfortable and appropriate clothes while learning at the safe confines of their homes.”

Classes will formally open on August 24 with the implementation of distance learning through modules – printed and digital, online classes, radio, and television. (PNA)