DAVAO DEL NORTE, Philippines — February 16, 2026. Three officials of the Department of Education (DepEd) in Davao del Norte have been placed under preventive suspension following questions over the implementation of school building projects in the municipality of Talaingod.

The suspension was confirmed by DepEd Region XI after an audit inquiry by the Commission on Audit (COA) flagged irregularities in the projects.

DepEd spokesperson Jenielito “Dodong” Atillo said the suspension stemmed from findings that two school building projects in remote areas were either not implemented or only partially completed despite allocated funds. 

“This is part of the ongoing investigation into the non-implementation and partial implementation of two school building projects in Talaingod,” Atillo explained.

The COA report, dated November 13, 2025, raised concerns about accountability and transparency in the handling of infrastructure projects meant to benefit students in far-flung communities. 

The audit findings prompted DepEd to act swiftly, placing the officials under suspension to prevent possible interference with the investigation.

Local education stakeholders expressed disappointment, noting that the projects were crucial for improving learning conditions in indigenous and underserved areas. Advocates stressed that delays or failures in school construction directly affect children’s access to safe and conducive learning environments.

DepEd assured the public that the investigation will be thorough and that appropriate sanctions will be imposed if the officials are found guilty of negligence or misconduct. The agency reiterated its commitment to ensuring that government resources are properly utilized to serve the needs of students across the country.

This case underscores the importance of strict monitoring of education infrastructure projects, especially in geographically isolated areas where children often face the greatest barriers to quality education.