The Department of Education (DepEd) on Saturday, July 12, issued a statement acknowledging the Office of the Ombudsman’s recent decision to file criminal charges against several of its former officials concerning the controversial purchase of allegedly overpriced and outdated laptops for public school teachers.

In a resolution, the Ombudsman said it would pursue cases for violation of Republic Act No. 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, falsification of public documents under Article 171, and perjury under Article 183 of the Revised Penal Code against the involved individuals.

DepEd clarified that the officials in the case are no longer connected to the Department.

“The officials subject to the charges no longer hold any position in or maintain any connection with the Department,” said DepEd Media Relations Chief Dennis Legaspi.

Meanwhile, DepEd emphasized its full cooperation with the Ombudsman in resolving the matter swiftly and fairly.

“DepEd reiterates its full commitment to cooperate with the Office of the Ombudsman in the expeditious and fair resolution of this case,” Legaspi said, adding that the agency is “ready to provide all necessary documents, information, and other forms of assistance to ensure accountability and to protect the interest of the public.”

The case stems from the controversial 2021 procurement of laptops for teachers, which became the subject of scrutiny following reports that the devices were overpriced and underperformed relative to market standards.

The laptops were purchased using pandemic response funds intended to support distance learning initiatives.

The issue drew widespread criticism from teachers’ groups and education stakeholders, who questioned the transparency and efficiency of the procurement process.

DepEd has since initiated reforms to strengthen internal controls and procurement practices in a bid to prevent similar incidents.