Senator Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada has urged a Senate investigation into reports of “ghost students” in the senior high school (SHS) voucher program of the Department of Education (DepEd). He stressed the need for stricter regulations and penalties to prevent abuses.
While the senator acknowledged DepEd’s efforts, Estrada said Congress may need to strengthen the program, define prohibited acts, and impose harsher penalties.
“It is imperative for the government to monitor the proper implementation of the SHS voucher program to ensure that public funds are judiciously allocated and that the intended beneficiaries of the said program are not deprived of the assistance they need,” according to him.
Through Senate Resolution No. 1316, Estrada asked the Committee on Basic Education to lead the inquiry.
“The effectiveness and integrity of the SHS voucher program should persistently be upheld to ensure quality and accessible education for the Filipino youth,” he explained.
DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara confirmed an ongoing investigation and actions such as terminating school accreditations and gathering evidence for potential administrative and criminal cases. However, details on the number of “ghost students” and misused funds remain unclear.
At least 12 private schools are under investigation for allegedly listing fake students as voucher beneficiaries.
Under DepEd Department Order No. 46, schools found guilty must return misused funds, and their participation in the program may be revoked.
“Ang pondong inilaan para sa SHS voucher program na nagkakahalaga mula P17,500 hanggang P22,500 ay dapat pakinabangan ng mga mahihirap na kabataang nangangarap na makapagtapos man lang ng senior high school, hindi ng kung sino-sinong nagmamanipula ng programa ng gobyerno. Ang ayuda sa ilalim ng batas, Republic Act No. 8545, ay para sa lehitimong estudyante, hindi ‘ghost students’,” said Estrada.IMT
