The House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability has officially launched an investigation into the alleged misuse of funds by the Department of Education (DepEd) during the leadership of Vice President Sara Duterte.
The house panel will look into possible “malfeasance, misfeasance, and nonfeasance” related to the department’s failure to deliver key projects, particularly the distribution of laptops and e-learning equipment.
According to Panel Chair, Manila 3rd District Rep. Joel Chua, they have received authorization from the House Committee on Rules to conduct a motu proprio investigation.
The committee decided to initiate the investigation following the manifestation of Rep. Gerville Luistro.
The investigation will focus on DepEd’s failure to utilize ₱9 billion out of the ₱11.36 billion budget allocated for ICT equipment in 2023, resulting in a low utilization rate of 19.22%.
The committee will also examine the 2023 Commission on Audit (COA) report, which highlights serious operational deficiencies in DepEd’s computerization program.
According to the COA report, 50.07% of the budget for the program was utilized, yet there were no significant accomplishments.
Manila Rep. Rolando Valeriano criticized VP Sara for the lack of transparency in handling the funds.
The House is determined to hold DepEd and the Office of the Vice President accountable for the lapses and ensure that future government funds are used properly.