Ongoing Probe into Senior High School Voucher Program Anomalies
The Department of Education continues its investigation into alleged irregularities involving the Senior High School Voucher Program. This program, designed to provide financial aid through vouchers to qualified senior high school students, is now under scrutiny for significant fund misuse. Education Secretary Sonny Angara shared updates on the probe during a forum following the State of the Nation Address in San Juan City.
“It’s not just P65 million; it appears to be bigger. It might be around 100 million pesos already. So, we’re really continuing our investigation on that and looking into how to strengthen the system so that no one can cheat it anymore,” Angara said in Filipino, referring to the misused funds.
Strengthening Systems and Legal Actions Underway
In response to these findings, DepEd has initiated reforms aimed at preventing future abuses of the Senior High School Voucher Program. Secretary Angara emphasized the importance of protecting both public funds and the rightful beneficiaries of the program.
“We have already filed cases—not just civil to recover the payments, but also criminal, to teach a lesson that the system should not be taken advantage of,” he added. These legal steps seek to hold those responsible accountable and recover the misappropriated amounts.
The Impact on Beneficiaries
Angara also stressed the broader consequences of the irregularities. “We’re talking about a significant amount here—not just the monetary value, but also the value lost by those who rightfully should have received this voucher,” he said, highlighting the impact on deserving students who rely on this financial support.
About the Senior High School Voucher Program
The Senior High School Voucher Program is a joint effort between the Department of Education and the Private Education Assistance Committee. It provides subsidies in the form of vouchers to eligible learners enrolled in participating private or non-DepEd public senior high schools. The program aims to ease the financial burden on students and promote access to quality education.
Authorities remain committed to ensuring transparency and accountability in the program’s implementation to protect public resources and support Filipino students.
For more news and updates on the Senior High School Voucher Program, visit Filipinokami.com.
