DepEd closes 55 lumad schools in Davao

DAVAO CITY, Philippines — The Department of Education (DepEd)-Davao regional office announced yesterday the closure of 55 schools operated by the Salugpongan Tatanu Igkanugon Community Learning Center Inc. (STICLCI), which cater to lumad children.

Evelyn Fetalvero, DepEd regional director, said the closure was upon the recommendation of a fact-finding committee of the DepEd regional office, which found irregularities in the operation of the schools.

Fetalvero said she issued a notice of resolution to Maria Eugenia Nolasco, executive director of STICLC dated Sept. 20, which contained the result of the investigation.

Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio also stood firm against the reopening at least 11 STICLC schools in the city.

Carpio said no STICLC school would be allowed to operate anywhere in the city.

Carpio cited the lack of academic records and individual learner’s reference number as among the reasons for the closure of the schools in this city.

She also cited a report claiming that students were taught how to use firearms apart from them being indoctrinated with anti-government propaganda.