THE COMMISSION on Audit has reminded the Department of Education  that existing laws mandate giving preference to underprivileged students in the distribution of government education assistance and resources.

In a recent report, the COA stressed that public funds intended for learners must primarily benefit those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

It emphasized that preference should be extended to underprivileged students to ensure that government support reaches those who need it most.

To strengthen compliance with the law, the COA recommended that DepEd develop and implement clearer and more transparent eligibility criteria.

These criteria, the audit body said, should be based on family income and other relevant indicators of financial capacity or socio-economic status.

The COA noted that the absence of well-defined standards could result in the misallocation of public resources, potentially allowing students with greater financial means to benefit from programs intended for the poor.

By refining eligibility guidelines, the COA said DepEd can better target beneficiaries, promote equity in access to education assistance, and ensure that limited public funds are used efficiently and in line with the intent of the law.

The audit body also reiterated the importance of regular monitoring and evaluation of education programs to confirm that beneficiaries continue to meet eligibility requirements and that assistance is producing its intended impact.