DepEd to probe overpriced computers, textbooks

The Department of Education (DepEd) has launched an investigation into allegations of anomalous deals from 2008 to 2010, involving overpriced computers and textbooks.

 

A report on tech site Yugatech cited a News5 report indicating the DepEd during the Arroyo administration may have bought Pentium 4 PCs for P400,000 each—way outdated and overpriced.

 

Other specs include a 56 kbps internal modem, and a 40GB hard drive, a 21in CRT monitor and keyboard and mouse.

 

In comparison, a current top-of-the-line Alienware gaming desktop only costs around PhP 65,600 (US$1,499). An Apple Mac Pro costs US$3,999 or roughly PhP 175,200.

 

"If we are to put it in today’s setting, P400,000 can give you four 27in iMacs, three top-of-the-line gaming notebooks, two 6-core with dual GPU Mac Pro, or even a decent automobile. What would you rather have for education with PHP400,000?" YugaTech pointed out.

 

The education agency also appealed to those with information on the supposed anomalies to send an email directly to armin.luistro@deped.gov.ph.

 

"While these alleged anomalous transactions happened in the previous administration, the current DepEd administration will investigate and, if needed, refer to the proper authorities for legal action. DepEd would like to encourage anyone with specific information and/or evidence to present these so that appropriate action may be taken,” it said. 

 

The PCs reportedly ran outdated Windows 98 software, only 128MB of memory, and obsolete floppy disk drives.

 

Yugatech, citing the News5 report, also said books that cost about P100 were overpriced to up to P300. — Kim Luces, Joel Locsin/TJD, GMA News