A TEACHERS’ group has raised concerns regarding the probable red-tagging by the Department of Education towards individuals, particularly regarding funds on the national budget.
“They are red-tagging individuals, ordinary citizens, who may be raising concerns over social issues notably the national budget. They are calling them terrorists,” Alliance of Concerned
Teachers chairperson Vladimer Quetua said in an interview.
The statement came after DepEd Undersecretary and spokesman Michael Poa said in an interview that they are trying to provide a safe environment for students and teachers alike.
“We are asking for more information regarding this,” Poa said, referring to claims that both students and teachers alike were being pursued by violent and extremist groups into joining causes.
Among these groups are terrorists, communist, and drug-related incidents, according to the Undersecretary.
Student unions also expressed their concerns, claiming that many youth leaders have been subjected to surveillance and intimidation after being red-tagged.
“It’s rather ironic for DepEd to be the mouthpiece of red-tagging, and
worse—enabled by their dubious and exorbitant intelligence and confidential funds,” Andrew, a member of the Rise for Education Alliance – UP Diliman said.
The union also questioned the department’s alleged lack of prioritization towards present challenges, with classroom shortages and urgent salary increase for educators as the primary concern.
“It seems like DepEd is losing its grip on their mandate as an agency for education—a much manifestation of the worsening education crisis in the country,” The group further said.