Education Secretary Sonny Angara has revealed that the Department of Education (DepEd) is now investigating a massive P100 million scam involving ghost beneficiaries under the Senior High School Voucher Program. The revelation came during the 2025 Post-State of the Nation Address (SONA) Discussions held in San Juan on Tuesday.
“The money involved is not just P65 million as previously reported—it has reached P100 million,” Angara said. “Our investigation is ongoing, and we are implementing stronger safeguards to prevent fraud in our system.”
The scheme reportedly involved fictitious student beneficiaries being entered into the Learning Information System (LIS), allowing private schools to claim government-funded vouchers. A cybercrime complaint has already been filed against individuals accused of tampering with the LIS to add these ghost names. One private school in Pasig and three school officials in Caloocan are currently facing charges.
Angara emphasized that the DepEd is taking legal action not only to recover the stolen funds but also to hold those responsible criminally liable. “We want to send a message that tampering with government systems and programs meant for our youth will not be tolerated,” he said.
Since its inception, the government has spent nearly P50 billion on the voucher program to help senior high school students enrolled in private schools. Angara stressed that fraudulent claims deny legitimate students their right to educational assistance.
“This kind of manipulation deprives deserving students of government support. These vouchers are meant to invest in the future of our youth,” Angara noted.
In a related effort, the DepEd has demanded refunds from 54 private schools flagged for questionable voucher claims between school years 2021 to 2023. Of these, 38 schools have already returned the full amount, two have made partial payments, while 14 have yet to comply.
Angara also confirmed that some of the fraudulent activities were carried out with the help of insiders from the DepEd who had access to confidential student information.
The department is now reinforcing its digital systems and improving monitoring processes to prevent future abuses. Angara reiterated that those found guilty—both within and outside the agency—will be held accountable.
“This is public money meant for students. We cannot allow our education system to be undermined,” Angara concluded.