Baguio Schools Roll Out Gender-Inclusive Uniform Policy

Baguio’s educational area just turned a shade brighter: multiple schools across the city have officially launched gender-inclusive uniform policies as of September 23, 2025. This progressive move gives every student, from bakla to babaeng tomboy, and everyone in between, the power to wear school attire that affirms their gender identity and expression. No more being boxed in by outdated, binary uniform rules, this policy is not just about what we wear; it’s about who we truly are.

Breaking down the new policy

At the heart of the roll-out is a simple principle: choice. Under the updated guidelines, students can select the uniform style, pants or skirt, blouse or polo, that best fits their gender expression, regardless of their legal sex assigned at birth. Schools are required to respect these choices, and administrators may not pressure students to “justify” their selection. Inspired by recent national discussions and policy shifts like the Civil Service Commission Memorandum Circular No. 16, s. 2024, these changes emphasize not just practicality, but the fundamental right to self-expression in the school setting. The full details of the regulatory change were observed in DepEd’s regional memoranda, highlighting that “gender inclusive” uniforms are the new standard for school year 2025-2026 (official DepEd memorandum).

Why this matters: Beyond the uniform

This move echoes the goals of proposed bills in Congress, like the Pants for Her Act, which advocate for “gender-neutral” options to encourage student comfort and mental health. Senator Tulfo’s bill, for example, stresses how uniform policies should “not support gender disadvantage and discrimination but encourage equity” (Philippine News Agency report). By rolling out its own inclusive policy, Baguio is now a frontrunner in helping LGBTQ+ youth feel seen and supported on campus. It shows the city’s educators recognize that confidence and well-being often start with the freedom to be authentic, even in a school corridor or quadrangle.

Know your rights: Advocating for safe and fair implementation

If you ever feel pressured or discriminated against because of your uniform choice, remember: school policies rooted in national and regional mandates are on your side. The Department of Education’s reconstituted Uniform Committee is actively soliciting feedback from diverse stakeholders, ensuring these rules are not just written but lived (DepEd official statement). Each school is tasked to consult its community, including student groups and LGBTQ+ advocates, before rolling out the specifics, so your voice does count!

Looking forward: Pride in every classroom

Baguio’s decision affirms that learning should always happen in a space where dignity, comfort, and self-expression come first. For our LGBT+ kababayan, every morning spent slipping into a chosen uniform is another silent act of pride, defiance, and hope.

If you have questions or feel your rights are not being respected under the new policy, reach out to your school’s guidance office or local LGBT+ support groups. Our community stands ready to help you wear your truth, one school day at a time.