A teacher in Cavite has made a public appeal to parents to reconsider giving “money garlands” or “money bouquets” during elementary graduation ceremonies. 

The teacher, identified as Gerva Lpt, posted her plea on Facebook, expressing concerns about the financial disparities it highlights among students.

In her viral post, Gerva wrote, “Mabibilang lamang ang mga batang graduates na mula sa pamilyang may kakayahang pinansyal. Karamihan sa kanila ay nagmula sa pamilyang kinakapos sa pang-araw-araw nila.” 

[“Only a few graduates come from families with financial means. Most of them come from families struggling with their daily needs.”]

She emphasized that many students come from financially struggling families and that displaying money garlands during the ceremony could make these disparities more apparent.

Gerva suggested that parents wait until after the ceremony to present their children with money garlands. 

“Pakiusap sa mga magulang na magbibigay ng money garlands ngayong graduation season na kung maaari, gawin ang pagsasabit pagkatapos na ng graduation ceremony at hindi habang nagaganap ang seremonya at lalong huwag sana sa mismong pagakyat sa stage, [I request parents who will give money garlands this graduation season to do so after the ceremony, not during it, and especially not while the children are on stage.]” she wrote.

Her post has garnered over 20,000 reactions, 64,000 shares, and 3,400 comments. 

The message has sparked a debate on social media, with netizens sharing mixed reactions. 

Some parents supported Gerva’s appeal, agreeing that the practice can create feelings of inequality among students.

One commenter said, “Napakagandang mensahe po sir pagbibigay rin po ito ng respeto sa mga magulang na walang kakayahan na magbigay ng pinansyal sa kanilang mga anak na may karangalan. Ang pagbibigay nila ng suporta at gabay sa pag-aaral ng kanilang mga anak ay higit na mahalaga [Sir, this is a beautiful message, as it also shows respect to parents who cannot financially reward their honored children. Providing support and guidance in their children’s education is far more important.].”

However, others disagreed, stating that giving money garlands is a way for parents to show pride and appreciation for their children’s hard work. 

“Not all my customers are rich, pero one thing in common is they are proud parents. Kung may money garland man po silang maisasabit, hindi ibig sabihin mayaman o may kaya agad [If they happen to have a money garland to hang, it doesn’t necessarily mean they are wealthy or well-off.],” one user commented.

Gerva, who is also pursuing a Master’s Degree in Education, according to his Facebook profile, continues to advocate for more inclusive graduation ceremonies. 

Her plea highlights the broader issue of socioeconomic inequality in school celebrations and the need for sensitivity towards all students and their families.