In a recent briefing, the Senior Vice Chairperson of the Appropriations Panel, Rep. Quimbo, emphasized the urgency for efficient fund utilization by the Department of Education (DepEd) amidst a national education crisis.
She expressed concern over findings from the Commission on Audit (COA) highlighting slow budget utilization, particularly in the DepEd Computerization Program (DCP).
Despite claims of 44,638 Information and Communication Technology (ICT) packages delivered, Quimbo criticized DepEd for misrepresenting the data as the equipment has not yet reached schools.
She expressed renewed hope with the appointment of Education Secretary Sonny Angara but acknowledged the significant challenges ahead, given the country’s lagging performance in global education rankings.
Quimbo stressed the need for urgent action to address the educational shortcomings highlighted by the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA).
Source: PhilNews24 | September 3, 2024
