By Gabriela Baron
The Department of Education (DepEd) explained on Monday, Sept. 19, that confidential expenses for all civilian offices are allowed.
DepEd made the statement after questions were raised about its P150-million confidential fund.
“Confidential expenses are allowed for all civilian offices, including the Department of Education. This has [a] solid legal basis as provided under [Department of Budget and Management],” DepEd said in a statement.
The Education department said confidential funds could be use to address sexual abuse, violence, graft, and corruption.
“[Some] of the pressing issues, which by their nature of being unlawful, need the support of surveillance and intelligence gathering to ensure that projects of DepEd are target-specific and will result in the broader protection of our personnel and learners,” DepEd stressed.
“We hope that this will enlighten our stakeholders that DepEd does not only face problems with access, equity, and quality education but also has to contend with pressing issues on safety and security.”
