Shocking Truth: Why Filipinos Are Losing Faith in K-12 Education!

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The Philippines' K-12 educational system, introduced in 2012, aims to enhance the quality of education by adding two years to the basic education curriculum. Despite its intentions, recent surveys indicate growing public dissatisfaction with the program. A Pulse Asia survey conducted from June 24 to 27, 2022, revealed that 44% of Filipinos were dissatisfied with the K-12 system, marking a 16-percentage point increase from 2019. 

 Similarly, a Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey from June 28 to July 1, 2023, showed that only 39% of respondents were satisfied with the program, while 37% were very dissatisfied. 

One of the primary criticisms is the program's failure to deliver on its promise of producing job-ready graduates. A 2020 discussion paper by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies highlighted that only about 20% of senior high school graduates entered the labor force, with 70% opting to continue their education. 

In response to these concerns, the Department of Education (DepEd) has initiated a review of the K-12 curriculum. A revised K-10 curriculum is currently being piloted in select schools, with phased implementation planned for the next school year. Additionally, a task force has been established to assess the senior high school program, with findings expected next year. 

Beyond curriculum revisions, there is a growing emphasis on enhancing media literacy and understanding of politics and governance among students. National Security Adviser Eduardo Año emphasized the importance of educating Filipinos about complex maritime issues and their sovereign rights under international law. 

These initiatives underscore the need for a holistic approach to education, one that not only addresses academic competencies but also fosters civic awareness and critical thinking. By integrating media literacy and governance education into the curriculum, the Philippines aims to cultivate informed citizens capable of navigating both local and global challenges.

BIR Cracks Down on ₱176M Tax Evasion Scam—Top Government Contractor Faces Criminal Charges!

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), under the leadership of Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui, Jr., has intensified its efforts to combat tax evasion schemes, particularly the use of "ghost receipts," through its Run After Fake Transactions (RAFT) program. This initiative recently led to the Department of Justice (DOJ) filing criminal charges against Hilmarc's Construction Corporation and its key officers.

DOJ Files Charges Against Hilmarc's Construction Corporation

On February 26, 2025, the DOJ filed eight criminal informations before the Court of Tax Appeals against Hilmarc's Construction Corporation and its corporate officers—Efren M. Canlas, Robert B. Henson, and Cristina Elisse F. Canlas—for violations of Sections 254 and 255 of the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC). These sections pertain to attempts to evade or defeat tax and failure to supply correct and accurate information, respectively. The charges stem from the alleged use of ghost receipts to fraudulently reduce tax liabilities. 

The Ghost Receipts Scheme

Ghost receipts are fictitious invoices issued for non-existent transactions. Businesses use these fake receipts to claim unwarranted deductions in their income tax returns and input tax credits in their value-added tax (VAT) returns, thereby illegally reducing their tax obligations. In the case of Hilmarc's, the company allegedly utilized receipts from ghost companies—Everpacific Incorporated and Unimaker Enterprises, Inc.—to falsely inflate expenses and claim input VAT credits for the taxable years 2013 and 2014. 

Financial Implications and Legal Consequences

The fraudulent activities attributed to Hilmarc's resulted in significant revenue losses for the government. The DOJ has indicated that, in addition to facing criminal charges, Hilmarc's is liable for basic tax deficiencies amounting to ₱176,363,284.77. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin "Boying" C. Remulla emphasized that such acts of tax evasion deprive citizens of essential services funded by tax revenues. 

BIR's RAFT Program and Technological Advancements

The BIR's RAFT program is central to its strategy to eliminate the use of ghost receipts. In collaboration with the Ateneo de Manila University's Department of Mathematics, the BIR has developed an algorithm capable of detecting potential users of ghost receipts through data analytics. This technological advancement allows the BIR to identify and investigate suspicious transactions more efficiently, reducing reliance on physical raids. 

Ongoing Efforts and Future Actions

The BIR's commitment to combating tax evasion extends beyond the Hilmarc's case. The agency has identified approximately 30,000 corporations and sole proprietors suspected of purchasing ghost receipts. Under the RAFT program, the BIR has filed cases against multiple ghost corporations with estimated tax liabilities totaling ₱25.5 billion and several corporate buyers and their officers, accounting firms, and certified public accountants with estimated liabilities of ₱17.9 billion. Legal proceedings against 69 respondents are currently underway at the DOJ, covering estimated tax liabilities of ₱1.8 billion. 

Conclusion

The collaborative efforts between the BIR and DOJ underscore a robust commitment to enforcing tax laws and ensuring compliance among taxpayers. The case against Hilmarc's Construction Corporation serves as a stern warning to other entities engaging in similar fraudulent practices. Through programs like RAFT and strategic partnerships with academic institutions, the BIR is enhancing its capabilities to detect and prosecute tax evasion, thereby safeguarding the nation's revenue and ensuring that public services are adequately funded.

PCO Chief Jay Ruiz Caught in P206M Media Deal Scandal? Here’s the Truth!

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

In a move to uphold ethical standards and prevent potential conflicts of interest, newly appointed Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Jaybee "Jay" Ruiz is actively divesting his shares in Digital 8, Inc., a media company he co-founded. This decision aligns with legal mandates requiring public officials to separate personal business interests from their official duties.

Background on Digital 8, Inc. and D8TV

Digital 8, Inc., established by Ruiz alongside former PTV General Manager Ana Puod, operates D8TV—a Philippine free-to-air digital television channel. Launched on November 4, 2024, D8TV offers a variety of lifestyle and infotainment content. Notably, the channel partnered with the Intercontinental Broadcasting Corporation (IBC) to broadcast lottery draws from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), commencing December 31, 2024. This collaboration marked the end of a three-decade association between PCSO and the People's Television Network (PTV). 

Ruiz's Appointment as PCO Secretary

On February 24, 2025, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. appointed Jay Ruiz as the PCO Secretary, succeeding Cesar Chavez, who resigned after acknowledging unmet expectations during his tenure. 

Ruiz's extensive background in media and communications positions him to enhance government messaging strategies and combat misinformation. 

Commitment to Ethical Governance

Addressing concerns about potential conflicts of interest due to his association with Digital 8, Inc., Ruiz is proactively divesting his shares. Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro confirmed that Ruiz is preparing the necessary documents for this process, in compliance with legal requirements. 

Legal Framework and Precedents

Philippine law mandates that public officials must divest from private business interests within 60 days of assuming office to avoid conflicts of interest. This ensures that officials' decisions remain impartial and in the public's best interest. Past instances, such as the case of former Solicitor General Jose Calida in 2018, highlight the importance of adhering to these ethical standards. 

Conclusion

Secretary Jay Ruiz's prompt action to divest his shares in Digital 8, Inc. underscores his dedication to ethical governance and transparency. This move not only aligns with legal obligations but also reinforces public trust in the administration's commitment to integrity.