The Department of Education (DepEd) has reiterated its no collection policy for all public and private elementary and secondary schools in an official statement on Tuesday, August 6.
In relation to this, Education Secretary Sonny Angara cited DepEd Memorandum No. 41, s. 2024, emphasizing that no fees should be collected during the enrollment period or throughout the school year.
“The prohibition covers any person for any project or purpose, whether voluntary or otherwise,” the statement reads.
However, membership fees for organizations such as the Red Cross and the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of the Philippines are exempt from this prohibition.
Additionally, contributions from parents and donors for barrio high schools are also allowed.
Violators of the no collection policy may face penalties under Republic Act No. 4206, which could include fines or imprisonment for up to one month.
DepEd personnel have been instructed to avoid soliciting contributions unnecessarily, aligning with previous directives aimed at maintaining professionalism in education.
