DepEd's Briones warns vs solicitations for self-learning modules

Education Secretary Leonor Briones on Friday reminded the public not to give in to petitions for cash donations for the supposed production of self-learning modules.

During Senate deliberations on the proposed P606.5 billion budget for the Department of Education and its attached agencies, Briones said swindlers have even resorted to name-dropping schemes.

"There are groups who are also writing contractors saying that Secretary Briones is raising funds for these famous modules or for what these schools need. Tapos may bank account and the bank accounts are legitimate, etc. It's a policy never to accept cash," Briones said.

"I don't use my name for activities like that. So hinahabol namin pag ganoon. Mga six figures pa ang hinihingi. I would like to warn our very generous and concerned citizens. Do not pay attention, especially if it's a request for cash," she added.

She further explained that those who would delve into "bond paper campaigns" for the production of self-learning modules must first determine the actual need in the area.

"Find out first the extent of the shortage kasi nagda-download kami ng pera for this," Briones said.

"Kailangan siguro tingnan maayos which schools are recipients, which schools are still lacking," she added.

According to Education Undersecretary Nepomuceno Malaluan the agency downloaded almost P9 billion for the production of self-learning modules for the first two quarters of the upcoming school year which is set to start in October.

"Dahil kulang ang amount ng centrally-downloaded funds, early on, nag-authorize ang Department of Education na maaring gamitin ang MOOE funds na talagang nakalaan sa bawat eskwelahan at gayundin ay humingi tayo ng tulong mula sa local government units through their special education funds," he said.

Malaluan said the Deped planned to rationalize the use of printed modules to make it more sustainable in the long run.

For 2021, the Department of Budget and Management appropriated P15 billion for the printing of self-learning modules. Another P5 billion was earmarked for this under unprogrammed funds of the agency. — DVM, GMA News