Denies report of non-distribution: Books get to schools - DepEd

CEBU, Philippines — The Department of Education in Cebu has denied it has not distributed books it has purchased intended for Grade 3 students.

A source told The Freeman that at least 102,240 English and Math books have been left undistributed and remain stacked at DepEd’s division office in Lahug, Cebu City since April.

The source showed photos of boxes placed in a tent at DepEd-Cebu Province’s office.

The Freeman confirmed the images through a site visit but Division Superintendent, Dr. Rhea Mar Angtud, denied the school materials have been left idle.

Dr. Novie Mangubat, chief of the School Governance Operations Division of DepEd-Cebu province, explained that the materials stored at the tent are a fresh set delivered only last October 25. The small boxes contain 102,240 Grade 3 English books and teachers’ materials.

She said delivery of learners’ materials, as well as their distribution, has been going on for months.

Mangubat said all the materials were purchased and bid out at DepEd’s head office in Manila.

The head office takes charge of delivering them to different division offices – a process that, albeit long, ensures thoroughness and transparency, she said.

All deliveries have to be opened by the supplier’s representative in the presence of the inspection team and the division supply office.

Mangubat said the school materials have to be inspected first to make sure they are the exact number and are in good condition.

The division supply office would then make a report or inventory of all school materials received. The report would include a description of the books and where they will be delivered.

After this, the supply office would canvass for a delivery office that offers the lowest price.

Mangubat said it is now easy to check each book, considering that the Cebu province division is the biggest division in Central Visayas with the largest school population.

She assured that there is no delay in the delivery or distribution of books to the identified schools, but certain processes or procedures have to be complied with. (FREEMAN)