DepEd: No collection policy in public schools still in effect

MANILA — The Department of Education (DepEd) reiterated that public schools are prohibited from collecting fees during enrollment and first day of classes.

In a statement, DepEd Secretary Bro. Armin Luistro said public schools should not use as basis for not admitting those students unable to pay these fees.

“We call on all teachers and school officials to see to it that we do not refuse a single student who wants to enroll. We strongly remind them that we do not collect any fees as a requirement for enrollment,” according to the secretary.

Luistro stated that although there are fees that are authorized by the department, these are voluntary.

Among these fees include Boy Scout and Girl Scout membership fees, Philippine National Red Cross, Anti-TB fund, school publication fee and Parents-Teachers Association fee.

“Let me be clear on this: in no case shall nonpayment of voluntary school contributions or membership fees be made as basis for non-admission, nonpromotion or nonissuance of clearance to student. And that includes withholding of school cards,” the secretary reiterated.

DepEd Order 41 series of 2012 mandates school officials not to collect any fees from Kindergarten up to Grade Four anytime during the school year.

On the other hand, schools are not allowed to impose fees on Grade Five pupils up to Fourth Year High School from June to July.

The secretary warned that schools would face administrative sanctions if they do not comply with the guidelines.

For his part, DepEd Assistant Secretary Jesus Mateo stressed that the government provides free basic education to all citizens.

“Schools are not allowed to turn away students. Only in extreme cases of overpopulation, can they do it. In such cases, schools opt for Alternative Delivery Modes (ADM),” he said.