Why sell the items when those are free to those who are worthy of the positions? Recently, there was a vlog on YouTube talking about this issue, highlighting a concerning instance of DepEd corruption. A principal allegedly called a teacher applicant and told her that she could secure the position provided she paid Php 350K. This teacher shared her experience with the vlogger, hoping to remain anonymous. The incident has grabbed the attention of many in the same working field. How come DepEd is not aware of this modus operandi that has been going around for quite some time?
This isn’t a secret; this act of DepEd corruption is known even in remote districts across the country. There are some principals notoriously involved in such schemes. It’s not only the principals but even some Schools Division Superintendents (SDS) are implicated. They ensure that a teacher gets a position, and in return, the teacher gives his/her first full salary to the principal or SDS. This practice is unfair and indicative of a broader problem within the system. While many applicants struggle to enter DepEd, others seemingly use money because they were asked to. This is the harsh reality of DepEd corruption.
This recent news, although not new, is catching everyone’s attention due to the large amount of money demanded. Imagine having to pay 350 thousand pesos upfront to a principal. Even if the teacher gets the position, she will have to pay off this amount for 5 long years. Such acts should not be tolerated in DepEd because they prove that the higher officials are deeply corrupt. The confidence of these principals in engaging in such activities is alarming.
If you are an aspiring new teacher aiming to join DepEd and encounter this situation, do not hesitate to report it to the proper authorities. This is a blatant abuse of power that, if unaddressed, will perpetuate. This must be stopped to break the chain. The hiring system in DepEd needs to be scrutinized to prevent such acts of corruption from prospering. This is a clear sign that even the highest authorities in DepEd are economically challenged to the extent that they exploit vulnerable teachers. Instead of using their positions to extort money, they should urge the President to raise salaries.
Read: The Wrongking System: When Who You Know Matters More Than What You Know
DepEd corruption is a serious issue that undermines the integrity of the education system. It’s time for proper authorities to take decisive action to cleanse the system and restore faith among aspiring teachers. – Mark | Helpline PH
