An Insult to the Hope of the Land

Ako Bicol party-list lawmaker Elizaldy Co appears to possess remarkable marketing savvy. He can sell substandard goods at premium prices and rake in enormous profits, regardless of the consequences.

The DepEd laptop scandal is more than a procurement issue— it’s a test of accountability. Whether or not Co or his outfit Sunwest is found to be involved, the case highlights how transparency and oversight are non-negotiable when billions are at stake. (Photo: Rep. Zaldy Co Facebook)

What seems to matter most is profiting handsomely, while the public bears the cost.

At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Education (DepEd) rolled out a laptop procurement program aimed at equipping teachers for online learning.

The initiative took place during the administration of Rodrigo Duterte, when DepEd was headed by Leonor Briones.

The consequences became evident in 2023, when the Office of the Ombudsman suspended 12 officials from DepEd and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for six months without pay over their involvement in the allegedly overpriced procurement.

The Commission on Audit found that DepEd paid ₱58,300 per laptop, despite an approved budget of only ₱35,046.50 per unit.

This 66 percent price increase forced DepEd to reduce the number of intended beneficiaries from 68,500 teachers to just 39,583.

The reduction meant fewer teachers equipped for online instruction, affecting students nationwide. With increasing enrollment, many teachers now handle multiple class shifts, often with 50 to 60 students per class.

The strain has compounded existing challenges in the education system, depriving thousands of students of adequate learning opportunities.

Critics argue that the pandemic exposed weaknesses in procurement systems.

The purchase was conducted through the DBM Procurement Service, the same entity linked to the multibillion-peso procurement of COVID-19 supplies from Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corporation.

The DepEd laptop controversy is more than a procurement issue. It is a test of accountability.

Whether or not Co or his company, Sunwest Construction and Development Corporation, is ultimately found liable, the case underscores the importance of transparency and oversight when public funds are involved.

Allegations persist that billions in taxpayer money were misused, though, to date, no charges have been filed against Co. For many, the issue symbolizes a broader failure to safeguard the interests of Filipino students, often described as the nation’s hope.

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