DepEd Commits to Ending Pay-for-Position Schemes
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd) has firmly pledged to impose administrative, civil, and criminal penalties on anyone involved in pay-for-position schemes within the agency. These schemes involve paying to appoint, promote, or designate employees.
DepEd emphasized that all personnel movements must be strictly based on merit, fitness, and competence, following civil service laws and established procedures. The department stated, “All personnel movements in DepEd must be strictly based on merit, fitness and competence in accordance with civil service laws, rules and established procedures.”
Legal Consequences for Violators
The department highlighted that such corrupt actions violate laws, including bribery statutes and Republic Act No. 3019, also known as the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. Those found guilty can face administrative, civil, and criminal sanctions.
DepEd urged victims and witnesses of pay-for-position schemes to come forward and report these offenses. Reports can be made to the Office of the Secretary, DepEd Central Office, the National Bureau of Investigation, the Philippine National Police, and other relevant law enforcement bodies.
Protecting Whistleblowers
To encourage reporting, the department assured that all complaints will be handled with strict confidentiality. It promised to implement safeguards to protect the identity and welfare of whistleblowers. “The department guarantees that all complaints will be treated with strict confidentiality and appropriate safeguards will be in place to protect the identities and well-being of whistleblowers,” officials noted.
Sources said DepEd’s firm stance aims to uphold fairness and integrity in its hiring and promotion processes, ensuring a corruption-free environment for Filipino educators and staff.
For more news and updates on DepEd personnel policies, visit Filipinokami.com.
