School uniforms (Filipino: uniporme or kasuotang pampaaralan, "school attire") are commonplace in public schools and required in private schools. In some private schools, there are specified days when students can wear civilian clothing. There is usually no uniform in universities and progressive schools except for uniforms used in physical education classes, and in specific schools such as the University of Santo Tomas.
Public school uniforms for primary levels are typically white, short-sleeved, buttoned-up shirts, with long skirts for girls and light brown knee-length trousers for boys. Uniforms for public high schools and private schools vary widely in pattern and colour, but most often are in the official school, colours. Muslim girls in some higher institutions are often required to wear a white hijab versus other colours.
The material for these usually loose uniforms is often light and suited to the country's tropical climate (e.g. cotton).
Primary school
Boys
White Polo and
Navy blue short trousers and Navy blue trousers; or
Navy blue long trousers
Blazer or vest (in some international schools)
neck tie (some schools)
Girls
cream-coloured blouse and checkered skirt; or
sailor uniform with knee-length checkered blue skirt
Blazer or vest (in some international schools)
neck tie (some schools)
Secondary school
Boys
White Polo and
Brown Slacks; or
White Polo with black trousers; or
White trousers (generally only for prefects)
(May include a blazer for certain international schools)
Girls
white or yellow blouse (with necktie) and checkered deep green skirt; or
sailor uniform with knee-length checkered blue skirt
(May include a blazer for certain international schools)
In 2008, the Department of Education ordered that students are no longer required to wear uniforms. This was to allow poorer families to save money for basic needs.