Philstar.com explains ‘ghost students’ in DepEd’s voucher program as a perennial problem

CHEERS TO Philstar.com for breaking down the complexities of the senior high school voucher program and explaining the long-standing issue of ‘ghost students’ benefiting from it.

The Department of Education’s (DepEd) voucher program, designed to subsidize senior high school students enrolling in private schools, has come under scrutiny because of the discovery of “ghost students.” In a statement on Wednesday, February 19, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara said that the department stopped the release of vouchers to at least 12 schools in nine regions due to fraudulent activity. He also acknowledged the department’s limitations in thoroughly reviewing all schools involved.  

While all the media reported on the issue, Chi’s report was set apart for doing more than just citing what DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara had to say. News reports focused on the facts at the surface of the issue. Chi went further, breaking down the complex situation and reviewing the long-standing background that had given rise to the perennial problem. She also identified the steps that DepEd is undertaking to address the situation.  

Chi’s report explained the voucher program and defined what constitutes a ‘ghost student’ which is essential as not everyone would be familiar with the term. Additionally, she highlighted DepEd’s monitoring process, including unannounced school visits, which institutions cannot refuse or evade. 

By citing data from the Private Education Assistance Committee and Commission on Audit, Chi underscored that the problem of “ghost students” is not an isolated incident but a recurring issue within the voucher program. Previous audits have exposed similar discrepancies, reinforcing the need for significant reforms to prevent continued misuse.

While other news accounts focused predominantly on official remarks, Chi’s article presented data, including previous findings, providing a comprehensive perspective on the issue. Her approach enables readers to grasp the full scope of the problem, pointing to the need for systemic changes.

In summary, Chi delivered a well-rounded report to explain the challenge confronting DepEd. Chi has also shed light on the broader structural issues affecting the voucher program. Reports that rely only on quotes and official statements do not help the public understand the background and context that give rise to fraud in the implementation of good intentions. Officials can say what they want to say, but journalists must not be limited to these sources in reporting a complex story.