DepEd files charges vs 7 schools for ghost beneficiaries scam

The Department of Education (DepEd) has filed criminal charges against seven private schools for allegedly defrauding the senior high school voucher program by listing 'ghost beneficiaries'.

Education Secretary Sonny Angara announced the filing of these cases, involving a total of PHP 61.9 million, during a House of Representatives hearing.

The charges include estafa through falsification of commercial documents and violations of the Cybercrime Prevention Act.

DepEd is still reviewing other similar cases, and more schools may face charges.

Earlier this year, DepEd had already terminated the participation of 55 other schools from the voucher program due to various issues, including the alleged existence of non-existent students.