DepEd-Davao Officials Suspended Amid Probe into Unimplemented School Project
In a recent development, the Department of Education-Davao Region (DepEd-Davao) has clarified that three officials from DepEd-Davao del Norte have been placed under preventive suspension. This action follows reports that a construction project in the province was "not implemented," sparking public concern and scrutiny.
Preventive Suspension Details
Jenielito "Dodong" Atillo, spokesperson for DepEd-Davao, emphasized during a press conference on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at the Royal Mandaya Hotel that this suspension is not a sanction or penalty. Instead, it is part of an ongoing administrative proceeding. The officials affected include:
- The Schools Division Superintendent (SDS)
- The Assistant Schools Division Superintendent (ASDS)
- The DepEd engineer assigned to the area
Atillo stressed that the 90-day preventive suspension does not imply guilt, as the investigation is still in progress. He urged the public to refrain from maligning the individuals involved and to respect the democratic process of the inquiry.
Investigation and Project Clarification
The investigation was initiated after a resident Commission on Audit (COA) inquiry revealed that a project, specifically for Kamingawan Elementary School, was "not implemented." Atillo clarified that this should not be labeled as a "ghost project," as the term is not factual. The project, valued at P36,357,670.57, involved the construction of a one-story, two-classroom building intended as a new structure, not a reconstruction.
Atillo explained that the DepEd regional office reported the matter to the central office, which holds the mandate to conduct the investigation. He noted that if the respondents are found guilty, they could face penalties or further suspension based on the administrative complaint to be filed.
Operational Continuity Assured
Despite the suspension, Atillo assured that the teaching process in Davao del Norte will not be affected. He stated that operations will continue as usual, with standard procedures in place to ensure leadership continuity. To prevent any vacuum, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara has appointed the DepEd-Davao Assistant Regional Director to temporarily assume the duties of the SDS and ASDS.
Atillo expressed hope for a swift resolution to the issue and emphasized efforts to prevent similar incidents in the future, maintaining that the division's morale remains unaffected by these developments.
