DepEd reiterates zero-collection rule for public schools

By Rachelle M. Nessia

Friday 1st of June 2012

DUMAGUETE CITY, June 1 (PIA) -- As preparations for the opening of classes next month kick into high gear, the Department of Education (DepEd) in Dumaguete City said it will strictly enforce zero collection policy among public schools here.

Dr. Ramir Uytico, Dumaguete City Schools Division superintendent, explained that said policy prohibits the collection of fees from kindergarten up to Grade 4 pupils in public schools throughout the school year.

“We can only start collecting the prescribed fees from Grade 5 until 4th year high school students in the month of August, which is the time when the parents and teachers associations are organized,” said Uytico in a recent forum held Wednesday by the Philippine Information Agency here.

Based on DepEd Order No. 19 series of 2008, the fees authorized to be collected on a voluntary basis are contributions for organizations such as the Boy Scouts of the Philippines, Girls Scouts of the Philippines, Red Cross, Anti-TB Fund, Parents Teachers Associations (PTA), and school publications, among others.

“These prescribed fees are voluntary in nature. Students or their parents should not be forced to pay them if they do not want to or cannot afford to,” said Uytico.

He also warned against withholding school records of students who fail to give contributions.

Public school principals and teachers are also restricted from being involved in the collection of said fees.

According to Uytico, the zero collection policy applies to public schools as “private schools have the discretion to adopt this or not since they have their own school policies."

He is, however, encouraging parents of students in public schools to submit their contributions if they have the means.

“If you can afford to pay the fees asked by the PTA, then please give them,” he said.

The public is urged to report to DepEd the schools or teachers in Dumaguete City who violate the zero-collection policy by calling DepEd’s Oplan Balik Eskwela Information and Action Center hotlines: 421-2473 or 225-7247. (RMN/PIA Negros Oriental)