Education Secretary Sonny Angara on Saturday emphasized the crucial role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing learning outcomes and in protecting the senior high school voucher program from fraud.

“Yes, AI can detect patterns of fraud based on past cases,” Angara said.

“That’s the job of AI — it identifies patterns. AI is also a predictive model, helping us foresee who needs monitoring. It’s a very useful tool,” the DepEd chief added.

Angara earlier revealed that the Department of Education (DepEd) would seek law enforcement’s help in investigating “ghost students” under the voucher program.

“We’re considering this because it’s an issue that needs not only removing them from the system but also pursuing legal action if there are valid cases against them,” Angara said.

The DepEd chief revealed that the fraudulent scheme was uncovered in 2023 and 2024. “We can trace it back further, but I’m not sure about the data situation,” he said.

“Our concern now is to implement safeguards so this doesn’t happen again,” he added.

Senate probed ghost studes

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said the Senate had already looked into the voucher program, particularly the issue of ghost students.

“We actually saw this last year. We investigated the ghost students and found that some schools were charging the government but they had no students,” Gatchalian said. “While the issue remains, it’s good that Secretary Angara is investigating and cleaning up the list.”

The senator also said that a bill has been filed in the Senate to tighten the voucher system’s requirements.

“For example, the schools’ quality must be checked. Right now, even subpar schools can accept vouchers, and their students fail the National Achievement Test,” he said.

“We’re tightening it up so only quality schools can participate, with an accrediting policy in place,” Gatchalian added.

The DepEd is investigating whether its personnel were involved in the “ghost students” scheme. Angara said those found responsible would face penalties.

Earlier this week, the DepEd announced that its central office was investigating ghost students in the SHS voucher program in 12 private schools across nine divisions. Actions, including the potential termination of school accreditations and gathering evidence, are underway. Those found accountable could face administrative and criminal sanctions, with perjury charges possible.

The Coordinating Council of Private Educational Associations, the country’s largest federation of private school associations, expressed support for the DepEd’s investigation.