Ghost Students Scam: DepEd Uncovers Shocking Fraud in Private Schools!

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a decisive move to uphold the integrity of educational funding, the Department of Education (DepEd) Central Office has launched an investigation into allegations of "ghost students" benefiting from the Senior High School (SHS) Voucher Program. This probe targets 12 private schools across nine divisions suspected of fraudulent activities. 

The SHS Voucher Program is a government initiative designed to provide financial assistance to students pursuing senior high school education in private institutions. The emergence of ghost students—non-existent enrollees fraudulently listed to siphon funds—undermines the program's objectives and raises serious concerns about fund misappropriation.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara emphasized the gravity of these allegations, stating, "We take these allegations seriously. Any form of misuse of public funds intended for critical education programs will not be tolerated." He further assured that the DepEd is committed to uncovering the truth and holding accountable those responsible for such fraudulent activities. 

This issue isn't unprecedented. In March 2024, a Senate investigation revealed over 19,000 ghost students benefiting from the SHS Voucher Program, leading to significant financial losses. Senator Sherwin Gatchalian highlighted that more than P7 billion was allocated to non-poor beneficiaries, diverting resources from those genuinely in need. 

The DepEd's current investigation aims to identify and hold accountable any personnel and officials involved in these fraudulent activities. Potential consequences include the termination of a school's participation in the voucher program and the revocation of accreditation. Legal measures, encompassing administrative and criminal sanctions, are also being considered against those found culpable. 

To prevent future occurrences, the DepEd is enhancing its monitoring mechanisms and encourages the public to report any irregularities related to its programs. Anonymous reports can be sent to walangkorapsyon@deped.gov.ph. The department also reassures the public that legitimate students affected by these investigations will receive the necessary assistance to continue their education without disruption. 

This proactive stance by the DepEd underscores its dedication to transparency, accountability, and the judicious use of public funds in delivering quality education to Filipino students.

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