Progressive Group Criticizes Delay in Impeachment Proceedings
A progressive organization representing education workers strongly condemned the recent delay in impeachment proceedings against Vice President and former Education Secretary Sara Duterte. They described this postponement as “unacceptable,” especially amid the worsening education crisis in the country. The Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) issued a statement expressing their dismay over the Senate’s decision to postpone the impeachment trial.
Concerns Over Misuse of Confidential Funds
A focal point of the group’s criticism is the alleged misuse of P125 million in confidential funds by Duterte. ACT emphasized that this amount is significant, particularly when the education sector is facing serious shortages. ACT Chairperson Vladimer Quetua stressed, “P125 million ay hindi maliit na pera (P125 million is not a small amount of money).” The group questioned the Senate’s dedication to justice and transparency, calling the delay a “grave disservice” to citizens demanding accountability from public officials.
Serious Allegations Demand Swift Action
The impeachment complaint filed last February includes seven grounds involving serious allegations. ACT warned that these issues cannot simply be brushed aside with procedural delays. “The seven grounds for impeachment filed in the Senate last February involve serious allegations that cannot be swept under the rug through procedural delays,” Quetua added, urging the authorities to prioritize justice.
Education Sector Faces Dire Challenges
Quetua painted a bleak picture of the coming school year, highlighting the urgent need for increased funding to address persistent backlogs and shortages. According to data from the Department of Education, public schools are short of 165,000 classrooms and 150,000 teachers needed to maintain the ideal 1:35 teacher-student ratio. Additionally, there are inadequate learning materials, clinic facilities, and guidance counselors.
Many students may be forced to bring their own chairs and electric fans, while classes might be held under trees or in basketball courts. “This is the reality, while public funds that could address these problems are allegedly being misused,” Quetua said, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Call to Expedite Impeachment Proceedings
ACT urged the Senate to accelerate the impeachment process. They emphasized the importance of holding public officials accountable for the misuse of taxpayer money, especially when such resources could alleviate the educational crisis. Quetua warned that delaying the impeachment trial effectively denies justice to Filipino taxpayers. “Justice delayed is justice denied,” he stressed.
The group called for transparency and accountability instead of political maneuvering that shields corruption. They urged lawmakers to remember that the Filipino people demand fairness and responsible governance.
For more news and updates on education and governance, visit Filipinokami.com.