MANILA — A Regional Trial Court (RTC) in Metro Manila has convicted an individual who attempted to defraud the Department of Education’s (DepEd) Senior High School Voucher Program (SHS-VP) through the submission of falsified billing statements, prompting the agency to renew its warning against fraud involving government education assistance.

The court found the accused guilty on two counts of the offense and sentenced him to up to 14 years, eight months, and two days in prison. He was also ordered to pay a ₱100,000 fine.

The ruling issued remains subject to appeal.

In a statement, Education Secretary Sonny Angara said the conviction demonstrates the government’s resolve to protect public funds.

“While we respect due process, this ruling sends an unmistakable signal: we will not tolerate anyone cheating our public system,” Angara said.

DepEd said individuals who seek to exploit government-funded education programs, including the SHS Voucher Program, will be held accountable.

“The Senior High School Voucher Program was built to give students opportunities, not to line the pockets of fraudsters,” Angara said.

The education chief also vowed to strengthen safeguards against fraudulent schemes and ensure legal action against those who misuse or attempt to misuse the SHS Voucher Program and other education assistance funds.