Hotline vs collection of graduation fees launched

MANILA, Philippines - A party-list group urged the public yesterday to report public elementary and high school officials who are collecting graduation fees from students.

Akap Bata said parents and students could report their complaints to hotline number (02) 4376831.

Arlene Brosas, national secretary-general of Akap Bata, said they would accept calls from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday to Sunday.

“All reports that we will be receiving will be compiled and will be sent directly to the office of Education Secretary Armin Luistro for immediate action,” Brosas said.

Aside from the hotline number, the public can also send their complaints to Akap Bata at [email protected]; Facebook account Akap Bata Party-List, and Twitter account @akapbata using the hashtag #GradFeeMonitor.

The Department of Education (DepEd) prohibits the collection of graduation fees or any kind of contribution from students, as well as the holding of extravagant rites that require special attire and extraordinary venue.

Luistro warned violators would be penalized and urged the public to report violations to telephone number 636-1663 or 633-1942. DepEd has set the graduation day for all public schools on March 18 or 19.