SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA)— The Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) prioritizes student and staff well-being by suspending its mandatory school uniform policy.

This comes after the Faculty Association, University Non-Teaching Association, and University Student Council jointly requested the change due to La Union experiencing dangerous heat indexes as recorded by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

University President Jaime Manuel, Jr. approved the request, effective April 8 and will be in effect until further notice. 

This allows students, faculty, and staff to prioritize comfort by wearing lighter, more breathable clothing during the hot weather.

"With the suspension, the DMMMSU community is no longer burdened by stifling uniforms,” said James Anthony Ocasion, student council president. 

He added, “We can now embrace the warmth in attire that suits our comfort and allows us to navigate our days with ease and focus on our studies and work." 

While uniforms are suspended, a dress code based on the student handbook remains in effect. 

Students must also continue wearing their university IDs with lanyards.

Jerick Bonngolan, a fifth-year agricultural and biosystems engineering student, applauds the decision. 

"This will likely create a better learning environment and improve student well-being during this hot period," he said. 

Bonngolan added, "It shows the university cares about our comfort and adapts to ensure a conducive learning environment despite the weather."

DMMMSU, the sole state university in La Union, has campuses in Bacnotan (North La Union Campus), San Fernando City (Mid-La Union Campus and Open University Systems), Agoo (South La Union Campus), and attached colleges in Rosario, Santo Tomas, and Balaoan. (JCR/AMB/REB/PIA Region 1)