The complaint filed by the ten Indigenous student scholars from South Cotabato against CHED Chairman Prospero De Vera III before the Office of the Ombudsman has brought to light the challenges faced by marginalized communities in accessing higher education. These scholars, who come from indigenous backgrounds, have been struggling to pursue their dreams of obtaining a college degree due to financial constraints.
According to the students, De Vera has failed to release their living allowances for three consecutive school years, starting in 2021. This has caused significant distress and hardship for these young scholars, who rely on these allowances to cover their basic needs such as food, transportation, and accommodation. The delay in disbursing these funds has not only hindered their academic progress but has also put their overall well-being at risk.
The plight of these Indigenous student scholars highlights the systemic issues that exist within the education sector, particularly in terms of providing equal opportunities for all. The lack of financial support and resources for marginalized communities often perpetuates the cycle of poverty and limits their chances of accessing higher education.
Furthermore, this incident raises questions about the accountability and transparency of government agencies responsible for overseeing educational programs. The students’ complaint against De Vera suggests a failure on the part of CHED to fulfill its mandate of ensuring the welfare and rights of students, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds.
The filing of the complaint before the Office of the Ombudsman is a significant step towards seeking justice for these Indigenous student scholars. It is a testament to their resilience and determination to fight for their rights and hold those in power accountable. The outcome of this case will not only impact the lives of these ten students but also serve as a precedent for future generations of Indigenous scholars who aspire to pursue higher education.
It is crucial for the Office of the Ombudsman to thoroughly investigate the allegations against De Vera and take appropriate action to address the grievances of these students. This case serves as an opportunity for the government to reevaluate its policies and practices in order to ensure that all students, regardless of their background, have equal access to educational opportunities and support.
Ultimately, the resolution of this complaint will determine the extent to which the government is committed to promoting inclusivity and social justice in the education sector. It is a test of the system’s ability to rectify past injustices and create a more equitable environment for all students, especially those who have historically been marginalized and disadvantaged.
Allegations Against De Vera
De Vera has already faced criticism for his failure to utilize a P10.3 billion fund intended for free tuition and living allowances for government scholars under Republic Act 10931, also known as the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act. The ten Menitobong students have accused De Vera of negligence of duties and responsibilities as a public official, violation of the Ease of Doing Business Act, grave abuse of power and authority, and moral injury to students and educational institutions.
The students expressed their frustration in their complaint, stating, “Days, weeks, months, and years have passed, but still we and other student-grantees have not received our aforementioned living allowances, which made us dismayed and affected our studies… Our parents definitely have no financial capacity to spend.”
In addition to filing a complaint against De Vera, the students have also called on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the leadership of Congress to take appropriate action against De Vera’s inaction on their pleas. They highlight that Congress has already provided the necessary funding for government scholars.
The allegations against De Vera have sparked a heated debate among lawmakers and education advocates. Many are questioning how such a significant amount of funds allocated for the benefit of students could go unutilized for such a long period of time. The failure to disburse the living allowances has not only caused financial strain on the students and their families but has also hindered their ability to fully focus on their studies. This negligence on the part of De Vera has raised concerns about his ability to effectively manage and prioritize the needs of the students under his care.
The accusation of violating the Ease of Doing Business Act further adds to the gravity of the situation. This act was put in place to streamline and simplify government processes, ensuring efficient and timely delivery of services to the public. By failing to distribute the living allowances, De Vera has not only disregarded the welfare of the students but has also violated the principles of transparency, accountability, and good governance that the act aims to uphold.
The students’ plea for action from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and the leadership of Congress is a testament to their desperation and frustration. They believe that their voices have been ignored for far too long and that immediate intervention is necessary to rectify the situation. With Congress having already provided the necessary funding, it is evident that the issue lies with the implementation and management of the program, placing the responsibility squarely on the shoulders of De Vera.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of effective leadership and accountability in the education sector. Students are the future of our nation, and their well-being should be a top priority. It is crucial that public officials like De Vera are held accountable for their actions, ensuring that the funds allocated for the benefit of students are utilized appropriately and efficiently. Only then can we truly provide universal access to quality education and empower the next generation to thrive and contribute to the development of our society.
In response to Representative Daza’s concerns, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has defended its implementation of the free tuition and living allowances program. CHED Chairperson Prospero de Vera III emphasized that the agency has been working diligently to ensure that the funds are properly utilized and that the program benefits as many students as possible.
De Vera pointed out that the program has already made a significant impact on the education sector. He cited data showing that enrollment in state universities and colleges (SUCs) has increased since the implementation of RA 10931. This indicates that more students are now able to pursue higher education without the burden of tuition fees.
Moreover, CHED has been implementing measures to address the dropout rate mentioned by Representative Daza. The agency has been closely monitoring the performance of student-scholars and providing necessary support to help them succeed in their studies. This includes academic assistance, mentoring programs, and counseling services.
While it is true that the program has faced challenges in its implementation, such as delays in the release of funds and the need for improved coordination among government agencies, CHED remains committed to continuously improving the system. The agency is working closely with UniFAST and other stakeholders to streamline processes and address any issues that may arise.
As for the allegations of a hidden agenda, de Vera firmly denied any ulterior motives behind the program. He stressed that the goal of RA 10931 is to provide equal opportunities for all Filipinos to access quality education, regardless of their socio-economic background. The program aims to empower individuals and contribute to the development of the nation as a whole.
In conclusion, while there may be concerns and criticisms surrounding the implementation of RA 10931, it is important to acknowledge the positive impact it has had on the education sector. The program has opened doors for countless students who would have otherwise been unable to pursue higher education. With continued efforts to address challenges and improve the system, the free tuition and living allowances program can truly make a difference in the lives of Filipino students and contribute to the country’s progress.
resident to address their plight. Diaz comes from a low-income family, and her parents struggle to make ends meet. Her father works as a construction laborer, while her mother takes on odd jobs as a laundrywoman. Despite their financial hardships, Diaz’s parents have always emphasized the importance of education, and she is determined to finish her degree and give back to her community.
Another student-complainant, Mark Anthony Santos, 22, is pursuing a degree in Information Technology. He is the breadwinner of his family, as his father passed away when he was just a child. Santos works part-time as a computer technician to support his mother and younger siblings. He dreams of landing a stable job in the IT industry to provide a better future for his family.
Among the student-complainants is also Maria Cristina Reyes, 23, who is studying Business Administration. Reyes hails from a remote province and had to leave her family behind to pursue her education in the city. She works multiple jobs, including being a student assistant, to pay for her tuition fees and living expenses. Despite the challenges of being far from home and juggling work and studies, Reyes remains determined to succeed and build a better life for herself and her family.
These are just a few examples of the student-complainants who are facing numerous challenges in their pursuit of education. Their stories reflect the harsh realities that many Filipino students endure in their quest for a brighter future. The delay in the release of their benefits under RA 10931 only adds to their burden, as they struggle to make ends meet while striving to excel academically.
It is crucial for the government and CHED to address these issues promptly. Timely disbursement of the financial benefits promised to these students is not only a matter of fulfilling their rights but also a means of ensuring equal opportunities for all. Education should not be a privilege reserved for the privileged few but a fundamental right accessible to all, regardless of their socio-economic background.
In conclusion, the challenges faced by the student-complainants extend beyond the delay in the release of their benefits. They are battling against financial hardships, family responsibilities, and personal circumstances that threaten to derail their dreams of obtaining a college degree. It is imperative for the government to step in and provide the necessary support and assistance to these students, enabling them to overcome these challenges and achieve their goals. Only then can we truly foster a society that values education and empowers its youth to thrive.
Source: The Manila Times
