The Department of Education (DepEd), including its Central Office and 12 Regional Offices, has yet to remit a total of P5.55 billion deducted from the salaries of teachers and other personnel for taxes, insurance contributions, and loan payments as of the end of 2022.
According to reports, the largest portion of this amount, P4.47 billion, has not been remitted to the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). Additionally, P307.034 million is owed to the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), while P193.768 million is pending for the Home Development Mutual Fund (HDMF or Pag-IBIG). The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is also awaiting P572.6 million from DepEd.
The Commission on Audit (COA) has warned that this could pose a serious threat to teachers and other DepEd staff. They may face penalties, reduction in benefits, and accrue unwarranted interests.
The failure to remit these funds to government agencies and corporations could have adverse effects not only on teachers but also on the entire education system. Teachers and DepEd personnel play a crucial role in shaping the future of the youth, and they should receive proper support and benefits from their respective agencies.
DepEd must address this issue promptly to maintain the integrity of the agency and ensure the well-being of its personnel. It is crucial to focus on effective fund management and give importance to fulfilling tax obligations and insurance contributions to avoid any negative impact on teachers and staff.