DepEd: Teachers not allowed to collect fees

CEBU, Philippines - Now that the enrollment period has begun, the administrative officer of the Department of Education in Mandaue City encourages parents to file complaint against teachers who collect fees.Benjamin Tiongzon, the administrative officer of the DepEd in Mandaue City during a press conference yesterday said the division office has already issued a memorandum reminding all public elementary and high schools in the city that they are no longer allowed to collect fees during the enrollment period.

Tiongson said grade 2 to grade six pupils and second to fourth year high school students are now automatically enrolled in the next near level and parents no longer need to enroll them as their names are now posted outside classrooms.

He also said that beginning last year, students are no longer required to have clearances signed by teachers because students do not have any accountability being in a public school.

Students who had not settled their Parents-Teachers Association (PTA) dues at the close of the school year last March have no obligation to pay since PTA contributions are voluntary in nature.

What teachers are allowed to do is collect payments for a lost book.

Tiongson said students who lost books in fires and other calamities are not required to pay.

All they need is a certification from the barangay hall to authenticate their claims.

Tiongzon also said pupils and students are not required to wear shoes or uniforms. (FREEMAN)