A viral social media post claiming that students must obtain a 95 percent average to qualify for honors sparked confusion among students and parents on Thursday, May 7, 2026. The post, which circulated widely, led to disappointment and frustration among many students who argued that maintaining such a high average would be extremely challenging.
Students Express Disappointment
According to a post shared by Mjay Camocamo Bantula, students have different learning capacities and academic struggles. She stated, "It is really hard to be a student today. Not everyone has the same capacity, and not everyone understands the lessons quickly. There are some who can reach 95, but there are others who give all their effort just to reach 80 or 90."
Another student, Dejoras Angel, also shared her reaction: "It’s disappointing; it’s already very hard to get a 90, what more a 95. We aren’t robots to reach that high of a grade."
Clarification from DepEd
The issue gained attention after social media users claimed that the Department of Education (DepEd) had raised the minimum average for honors under the K-12 grading system. However, teachers and netizens later clarified that the information was false. According to DepEd Order No. 36, s. 2016, the official guidelines for academic awards and recognition remain unchanged:
- 90–94 average — With Honors
- 95–97 average — With High Honors
- 98–100 average — With Highest Honors
Teachers emphasized that there is currently no DepEd order requiring a 95 percent minimum for honors, and the viral claim is baseless.
