Education undersecretary resigns amid kickback allegations

Education Undersecretary Trygve Olaivar has resigned from his post, as confirmed by the Department of Education (DepEd).

Olaivar's resignation follows allegations of involvement in irregularities concerning infrastructure projects, specifically a flood control project controversy.

His name surfaced during a Senate blue ribbon committee hearing where former DPWH Undersecretary Roberto Bernardo accused him of participating in a kickback scheme.

Bernardo alleged that Olaivar contacted him in 2024 with a list of projects and requested a 15% 'commitment' from P2.85 billion worth of flood control and road maintenance projects funded through unprogrammed appropriations of the Office of the Executive Secretary.

Prior to his resignation, Olaivar had denied the accusations and had previously taken a voluntary leave of absence.

The DepEd confirmed his resignation, stating that he formally submitted it to the Palace and personally handed it in yesterday.