PEAC, DepEd vow tighter controls for voucher program

MANILA, Philippines — The Private Education Assistance Committee (PEAC) vowed to work closely with the Department of Education to protect public funds and ensure the integrity of the senior high school (SHS) voucher program after the Commission on Audit (COA) flagged irregularities involving “ghost students” in the program.

PEAC executive director Doris Ferrer said necessary safeguards are being implemented in the government’s SHS voucher program.

“The integrity of the SHS voucher program is non-negotiable for us,” Ferrer said.

Ferrer added that PEAC has clear systems, validation processes and monitoring mechanisms to ensure that vouchers are properly used and that any concerns are addressed immediately.

She said PEAC, in close coordination with DepEd, validates voucher grantees through its Voucher Management System and cross-checks records with DepEd’s Learner Information System before processing any billing.

“We do not process billing documents unless schools have been cleared from the previous school year. When issues are identified, refunds are required. And when necessary, sanctions such as suspension or termination from the program are imposed on erring participating schools,” Ferrer said.

Ferrer also said PEAC has recommended stricter quality assurance measures to ensure that SHS providers deliver education services to eligible learners.

She added that PEAC works closely with DepEd in handling cases and strengthening program policies.

“We remain fully committed to transparency, accountability and protecting the welfare of our learners. Our role is to ensure that the voucher program continues to serve students while safeguarding public trust,” Ferrer said.

Members of PEAC, including the presidents of the Association of Christian Schools, Colleges and Universities; the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines; the Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities and PEAC regional program directors nationwide likewise vowed transparency and accountability to protect the integrity of the SHS voucher program.

SHS voucher program is a long-standing and cost-effective initiative that has played a vital role in expanding access to quality senior high school education for at least 6.7 million learners nationwide.

Earlier this month, the COA called out DepEd for including alleged “ghost students,” ineligible beneficiaries, as well as students from prestigious high-tuition private schools under its voucher program for school years 2022-2023 and 2023-2024.