DepEd to file charges vs Palaro execs

Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Jesli Lapus yesterday said they are ready to file administrative and criminal charges against those who allowed and facilitated the participation of over-aged players in the recent Palarong Pambansa held in Naga City last May.

This was the result of the probe made by the committee organized by then DepEd officer-in-charge Undersecretary Fe Hidalgo and headed by Undersecretary for Legal Affairs Franklin Sunga.

"I have been advised by our investigating committee that they have found due cause to file charges against officials and coaches who perpetuated the participation of over-aged players in this year’s Palaro. Hence, we will file administrative and even criminal charges against them," said Lapus in a statement yesterday.

Lapus also warned against cheating in future national youth games, emphasizing that this will not be tolerated by DepEd’s leadership.

"Let this be a lesson, and a warning, to everyone — we do not manipulate our students just so we can win competitions. The essence of the Palarong Pambansa is not about winning. It is about how we teach our students the values of camaraderie, sportsmanship, fair play and striving for success. Cheating is definitely not the value we wish to inculcate in them," Lapus said.

The DepEd has earlier recommended the filing of charges against 11 school officials from the DepEd and 16 students from public schools allegedly due to involvement in falsification of public documents in the Palarong Pambansa 2006.

Those involved in the allegations include coaches, teachers and a principal, for allowing over-aged elementary athletes to participate in the yearly athletic event in the football or baseball events. — Sandy Araneta