Social Items


If you're commuting in and out of Cavite, there's a good chance you'll pass through Robinsons Dasmariñas Transport Terminal—a key gateway for public transport located beside one of the busiest malls in the province.



Robinsons Dasmariñas Transport Terminal

Known to many as the Pala-Pala Terminal, this spot connects passengers to destinations across Metro Manila, Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, and even Bicol.

Whether you’re heading to work, going on vacation, or just out for errands, this guide has everything you need to know about navigating the terminal.

Loading...

Location and How to Get to Robinsons Dasmariñas

Robinsons Place Dasmariñas is situated along Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, near the Governor’s Drive intersection in Brgy. Sampaloc 1, Dasmariñas City, Cavite. It’s easy to spot, especially with major landmarks nearby like SM Dasmariñas and RCourt.


Getting There from Nearby Cities


From Alabang / Bacoor / Imus:
  • Take a bus or jeepney bound for Dasmariñas. Get off at Pala-Pala, where Robinsons Dasma is located.

From Tagaytay / Silang:
  • Ride a bus going to Baclaran or Alabang and ask to be dropped off at Robinsons Dasma.

From Batangas or Laguna:
  • Several UV Express vans and buses stop at the terminal, especially those heading toward Alabang or Cavite cities.




Terminal Operating Hours

The terminal generally operates from 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Some early routes—like those bound for Metro Manila—start as early as 3:30 AM, while provincial buses (especially RMB Lines) may have more limited windows in the afternoon.



Bus Services


METROLINK (Located near RCourt)

  • Operating Hours: 3:30 AM to 5:30 PM

  • Destinations:
    • Robinsons Dasmariñas
    • Carmona
    • Alabang
    • Market! Market!
    • Eastwood
    • Cubao

RMB (Located near Padi's Point)

  • Operating Hours: 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM

  • Destinations:
    • Robinsons Naga
    • Daraga, Albay
    • Nabua
    • Tabaco City
    • Legazpi City

These buses are perfect for long-distance trips and provincial travelers heading home or to tourist spots in Bicol.


UV Express & Jeepney Terminal (Located in front of KFC)

If you're traveling within nearby provinces, this terminal offers multiple options:


These rides are especially convenient for daily commuters heading to industrial zones or port areas.



Shuttle & Multicab (Located near Padi’s Point)

For more localized routes or last-mile connections, multicabs and shuttles offer the following trips:

  • Multicab to Paliparan
  • Bus to Alabang
  • Shuttle to PCU (Philippine Christian University)


Tricycle Terminal (Located near Terraza)

Need to get around Dasma? Tricycles are available at the terminal and can take you to any barangay or local area in the city. Perfect for quick hops to subdivisions, schools, or offices nearby.


Things to Do at Robinsons Dasmariñas While Waiting

Aside from being a transport terminal, Robinsons Place Dasmariñas is also one of Cavite’s top lifestyle destinations. If you’re waiting for your trip or just arrived early, here are some ways to spend your time:

  • Shop at stores like Uniqlo, Bench, and Robinsons Department Store.

  • Eat at food courts, fast food chains (KFC, Jollibee, etc.), or dine-in restaurants.

  • Watch a movie at Robinsons Movieworld.

  • Run errands at government satellite offices such as PRC, DFA, and Pag-IBIG.

  • Relax at coffee shops or take advantage of free Wi-Fi zones.

  • Get pampered at salons or wellness spas inside the mall.


Robinsons Dasmariñas Transport Terminal is more than just a stopover—it’s a well-connected, commuter-friendly hub right at the heart of Cavite. Whether you’re a daily commuter, weekend traveler, or heading home to the province, this terminal makes your journey a whole lot easier.


Guide to Robinsons Dasmariñas Transport Terminal (Pala-Pala Terminal)


With traffic congestion being a daily reality in Metro Manila, residents and commuters have long sought alternative ways to move around the city. From underground subway systems to the possibility of cable cars, many solutions have been explored. Now, attention is turning to a long-overlooked option: our rivers and lakes.


The government’s answer? The Manila Bay–Pasig River–Laguna Lake Ferry System, or MAPALLA—a proposed large-scale ferry network that could become a game-changer in urban mobility.


A Water-Based Transit Solution

According to the Department of Transportation (DOTr), MAPALLA is envisioned as a low-emission, high-volume, and frequent ferry service that will connect Laguna Lake to Manila Bay, passing through the Pasig and Marikina Rivers. With an estimated cost between ₱15 billion and ₱20 billion, the project includes not just the vessels, but also the construction of ferry stations, docks, and support infrastructure.

Loading...

DOTr Undersecretary for Planning and Project Development Timothy John Batan explained that the concept is about maximizing existing natural waterways to ease congestion on the roads. Despite Metro Manila being surrounded by rivers and coastal areas, water transport remains an underutilized option—currently limited to the small-scale Pasig River Ferry system.




Progress So Far

As of now, a feasibility study is nearing completion, and the DOTr hopes to secure full approval for the project by mid-2025. Discussions with potential private sector partners are already underway to help support the ferry system’s construction and operations.

“We expect the feasibility study to be finished by the first half of this year. By the middle of 2025, we aim to secure approval for the project,” Batan said during an interview on Radyo Pilipinas.

The ferry system’s first phase will stretch across a 30-kilometer route, featuring 32 stations along the Pasig and Marikina Rivers. To serve this route, the DOTr plans to deploy 40 electric ferries, each capable of carrying between 100 to 150 passengers per trip.



Integrated, Multimodal Transit

MAPALLA is more than just a ferry service—it’s envisioned as part of a fully integrated transport ecosystem. The plan includes seamless links with other public transport systems like trains and buses, as well as pedestrian and cycling infrastructure to promote sustainable mobility.

Inspired by successful water transit models such as the NYC Ferry in the United States and Thailand’s Chao Phraya River Ferry, MAPALLA aims to become a reliable and eco-friendly commuting option on a scale far beyond the current river ferry service operated by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).




As Metro Manila’s roadways grow more congested each year, the MAPALLA Ferry System could finally unlock the potential of our waterways—offering a smarter, greener, and faster way to travel across the metro.


Other Transportation Info in the Philippines


MAPALLA Ferry to Cater Passengers from Manila Bay and Laguna Lake Thru Pasig River


When starting an investment journey, the terms "mutual funds" and "exchange-traded funds (ETFs)" are often encountered. Both are popular investment vehicles that allow you to diversify your portfolio by pooling money with other investors.



This pooled money is then professionally managed to buy a basket of stocks, bonds, or other securities. While they share this fundamental concept, they have key differences in how they are managed, traded, and priced.

This article will break down what mutual funds and ETFs are, their pros and cons, and which might be the better choice depending on your investment style and goals.

Loading...

What is a Mutual Fund?

A mutual fund is a type of investment where a fund manager actively or passively manages a portfolio of assets on behalf of many investors. When you buy into a mutual fund, you are buying a share of the entire portfolio. The price of a mutual fund share is calculated once at the end of each trading day, based on its Net Asset Value (NAV).


Pros


  • Professional Management: You benefit from the expertise of a professional fund manager who makes all the buying and selling decisions, saving you time and effort.

  • Instant Diversification: With a single investment, you gain exposure to a wide range of securities, which helps to mitigate risk.

  • Variety of Funds: There is a vast array of mutual funds available, each with a different investment objective (e.g., growth, income, specific sectors), allowing you to find a fund that aligns with your goals.

  • Convenience: You can often invest in mutual funds with a relatively low minimum investment, and transactions are handled directly with the fund company.


Cons


  • Daily Pricing: You can only buy or sell shares once a day after the market closes, which means you cannot react to intraday market movements.

  • Higher Fees: Actively managed mutual funds often have higher expense ratios (fees) to cover the costs of the fund manager's research and trading activities.

  • Tax Inefficiency: Because fund managers actively buy and sell securities within the fund, it can trigger capital gains distributions to investors, even if the investor hasn't sold any of their shares.




What is an Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF)?

An ETF is a type of fund that trades on a stock exchange just like an individual stock. Most ETFs are passively managed and designed to track a specific market index, such as the S&P 500 or a local index like the Philippine Stock Exchange Index (PSEi). When you buy an ETF, you are buying a share that represents a stake in the basket of assets held by the fund.



Pros


  • Real-Time Trading: Unlike mutual funds, ETFs can be bought and sold throughout the trading day at market prices, giving you greater flexibility to react to market changes.

  • Lower Costs: Because most ETFs are passively managed and simply track an index, they generally have significantly lower expense ratios compared to actively managed mutual funds.

  • Tax Efficiency: The passive nature of most ETFs results in fewer capital gains distributions, making them more tax-efficient for investors.

  • Transparency: You can see the price of an ETF in real-time, giving you a clear view of its market value throughout the day.

  • Low Entry Barrier: You can start investing in an ETF with as little as the cost of a single share plus brokerage fees.


Cons


  • Brokerage Fees: Since ETFs trade like stocks, you may incur brokerage commissions each time you buy or sell shares. These fees can add up if you trade frequently.

  • Potential for Price Discrepancies: The price of an ETF can sometimes trade at a slight premium or discount to its actual NAV due to market demand and supply.

  • Less Control: While there are actively managed ETFs, most are passively managed, meaning you have no say in the asset allocation.



Mutual Funds vs. ETFs: Which is Right for You?

The choice between mutual funds and ETFs largely depends on your investment style, goals, and how actively you want to manage your portfolio.

Choose a Mutual Fund if... you prefer a hands-off approach and are comfortable with a professional making the decisions for you. Mutual funds are a good fit for investors who want to invest for the long term and don't need the flexibility of intraday trading.

Choose an ETF if... you are a more active investor who wants the flexibility to trade throughout the day. ETFs are also an excellent choice for cost-conscious investors who prefer the tax efficiency and transparency of a passively managed index fund.




Ultimately, both mutual funds and ETFs are powerful tools for diversification and long-term wealth building. It is crucial to conduct thorough research, understand the fees, and choose an investment that aligns with your financial objectives before making a decision.



Understanding Mutual Funds and Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs): A Guide for Filipino Investors


For Filipino investors seeking passive income and a way to diversify their portfolios, Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) have become a highly attractive option. REITs allow you to invest in a portfolio of income-generating real estate assets—such as office buildings, malls, and industrial properties—without the need to directly purchase or manage the properties yourself.



Under Philippine law, REITs are mandated to distribute at least 90% of their distributable income as dividends to shareholders on a quarterly basis. This makes them an excellent vehicle for those looking for a regular income stream. As the Philippine economy continues to recover, the REIT sector has shown strong performance, with many companies demonstrating robust growth and promising outlooks for the year. Here is a guide to some of the top-performing and most promising Philippine REITs to consider investing in this 2025.


Note: The stock prices and dividend information provided are based on data available from July to August 2025. This information is subject to change based on market movements and company announcements. Dividends, in particular, can vary and are not guaranteed. It is highly recommended to perform your own research and consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.




1. AREIT, Inc. (AREIT)

As the country's first-ever REIT, AREIT has a solid reputation backed by its sponsor, Ayala Land, Inc. Its portfolio is a mix of high-quality office, retail, and industrial properties, primarily located in prime business districts. AREIT has shown consistent growth through strategic acquisitions, which has helped to increase its rental portfolio and dividend payouts. Its stability and strong sponsor make it a top choice for conservative investors.

Current Stock Price: As of August 12, 2025, the stock price for AREIT is not publicly available.

Average Dividends and Frequency: AREIT consistently pays dividends on a quarterly basis. Recent payouts have been approximately ₱0.58 per share per quarter.


2. RL Commercial REIT, Inc. (RCR)

Backed by Robinsons Land Corporation, RCR has been one of the top performers in the REIT sector this year. RCR has a geographically diversified portfolio of office and commercial properties. Its strong performance is driven by the improving office market and strategic asset infusions, which are expected to further boost its dividend growth. RCR's push to include malls in its portfolio also makes it less vulnerable to potential oversupply in the office market.

Current Stock Price: The stock price for RCR is not publicly available as of August 12, 2025.

Average Dividends and Frequency: RCR typically pays dividends on a quarterly schedule. Recent payouts have been around ₱0.10 per share per quarter.


3. Citicore Energy REIT Corp. (CREIT)

CREIT stands out as the country's first and only renewable energy REIT. Its assets are primarily in solar and wind power, offering investors a way to participate in the growing green energy sector. This unique asset class provides a stable income stream from long-term power supply agreements, and the company's commitment to sustainability aligns with global investment trends. CREIT is a great option for investors who want to diversify beyond traditional real estate.

Current Stock Price: The last traded price for CREIT was ₱3.64 on August 7, 2025.

Average Dividends and Frequency: CREIT distributes dividends on a quarterly basis. A recent payout was ₱0.049 per share.


4. MREIT, Inc. (MREIT)

Sponsored by Megaworld Corporation, MREIT holds a portfolio of prime office buildings, many of which are accredited by the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA). The improving demand for office spaces and MREIT's strategic acquisitions and growth plans position it for continued dividend growth. Its portfolio of high-quality assets in key business hubs makes it a stable long-term investment.

Current Stock Price: As of August 11, 2025, MREIT closed at ₱14.34.

Average Dividends and Frequency: MREIT has a history of paying dividends quarterly. Its recent annual dividend was approximately ₱0.9973 per share.


5. Filinvest REIT Corp. (FILRT)

FILRT's portfolio is composed of office properties, many of which are also PEZA-accredited. The company has a solid pipeline of assets from its sponsor, Filinvest Land, which are expected to support future growth. FILRT's performance has been strong, with a notable increase in its share price and a healthy dividend yield, making it an attractive option for investors looking for both income and capital appreciation.

Current Stock Price: The stock price for FILRT is ₱3.57 as of August 12, 2025.

Average Dividends and Frequency: FILRT distributes dividends quarterly. A recent dividend payout was ₱0.25 per share.


6. VistaREIT, Inc. (VREIT)

VistaREIT is backed by Vista Land, with a portfolio of retail properties that includes shopping malls. With its strong connection to the Villar Group's ecosystem, VREIT is well-positioned to benefit from the post-pandemic recovery in consumer spending. The company has high future growth potential as its sponsor continues to inject more retail assets, making it a promising investment for those bullish on the retail sector.

Current Stock Price: The stock price for VREIT is not publicly available as of August 12, 2025.

Average Dividends and Frequency: VREIT has consistently paid dividends on a quarterly basis since its IPO. Payouts have been in the range of ₱0.08 to ₱0.10 per share per quarter.


7. DDMP REIT, Inc. (DDMPR)

DDMPR's assets are primarily in office properties located in the DoubleDragon Plaza in the Bay Area of Pasay City. While the company's performance has been volatile, its high dividend yield can be attractive for investors seeking a high-income stream. Investors should keep a close eye on the company's occupancy rates and future growth plans.

Current Stock Price: As of August 8, 2025, DDMPR closed at ₱1.07.

Average Dividends and Frequency: DDMPR distributes dividends on a quarterly basis. Its last annual dividend was approximately ₱0.0928 per share, with recent quarterly payouts around ₱0.02 to ₱0.03 per share.



8. Premiere Island Power REIT Corp. (PREIT)

PREIT is a specialized REIT whose assets are primarily used for social and missionary electrification projects. The company's unique position allows it to benefit from the growing demand for energy in the country. PREIT offers a reliable dividend yield and has the potential for capital appreciation as the company expands its renewable energy portfolio.

Current Stock Price: The last traded price for PREIT was ₱2.19 as of August 8, 2025.

Average Dividends and Frequency: PREIT has a history of distributing dividends on a quarterly basis. It has paid out a significant portion of its distributable income since its listing.



Important Considerations Before Investing

Before investing in any REIT, it's essential to conduct thorough research and consider the following:

  • Dividend Yield: While a high dividend yield is attractive, it's crucial to look at the sustainability of the dividends. A company with a stable and growing income stream is often a better long-term investment.

  • Sponsor and Portfolio: The strength and reputation of the sponsor and the quality of the underlying real estate assets are key indicators of a REIT's stability.

  • Growth Potential: Look for REITs with clear plans for asset acquisitions and expansion, as this will drive future dividend growth and capital appreciation.

  • Interest Rate Sensitivity: REITs are sensitive to interest rate changes. A low-interest rate environment can make REITs more attractive, while rising rates can have the opposite effect.


Conclusion

The Philippine REIT market in 2025 offers a diverse range of investment opportunities for both beginners and seasoned investors. From traditional office and retail properties to emerging renewable energy assets, REITs provide a powerful way to earn passive income and participate in the country's real estate growth. By carefully researching and diversifying your portfolio across these promising REITs, you can build a stable and profitable investment strategy.


Read Next . . .


Top Philippine REITs to Watch in 2025: A Guide to Real Estate Investing


For new and experienced investors alike, understanding the different ways to earn a return on your money is fundamental to building a sound financial strategy. While the goal is always to grow wealth, the methods for achieving this can vary significantly in terms of risk, predictability, and tax implications. The three primary forms of investment returns are dividend income, interest income, and capital gains. Each serves a unique purpose and is suited for different financial objectives.



1. Dividend Income: The Power of Passive Payouts

Dividend income is a share of a company's profits paid out to its shareholders. It's a return you receive for owning a piece of the company. Dividends are typically distributed on a regular schedule—quarterly, semi-annually, or annually—making them a predictable source of passive income. Companies that pay dividends are often mature and financially stable, signaling a track record of profitability and a commitment to rewarding their shareholders.

  • Pros: The biggest advantage is the steady cash flow it provides, which can be a reliable source of income in retirement or a supplement to your salary. Dividends can also offer a cushion during market downturns, as you continue to receive payouts even if the stock price declines. Furthermore, reinvesting these dividends can significantly compound your wealth over the long term.

  • Cons: Dividends are not guaranteed. A company's board of directors can choose to cut, suspend, or eliminate dividends if the company faces financial difficulties or decides to reinvest its profits into growth initiatives instead. This focus on paying out profits can sometimes mean less money is being reinvested for future growth, potentially limiting the stock's long-term appreciation.


Loading...

2. Interest Income: The Security of Fixed Returns

Interest income is the return you receive from lending money. This is the cornerstone of debt investments and is earned from assets like savings accounts, bonds, and certificates of deposit (CDs). The return is based on a fixed rate and a predetermined payment schedule, making it the most predictable of the three income types.

  • Pros: The primary benefit of interest income is its stability and low risk. It's ideal for investors focused on capital preservation, as the principal amount of the investment is generally very secure. Because the returns are fixed and reliable, interest-bearing assets are excellent for a conservative portfolio and for planning future expenses.

  • Cons: The most significant drawback is the low return potential. Interest rates are often modest and may not keep pace with inflation, which can erode your purchasing power over time. Unlike stocks, the value of the investment itself does not appreciate, limiting your growth opportunities.




3. Capital Gains: The Potential for Exponential Growth

A capital gain is the profit realized when you sell an asset—such as a stock, real estate, or a mutual fund—for a higher price than what you originally paid. Unlike dividends or interest, a capital gain is only earned when you actively sell the asset. This makes it a primary strategy for investors focused on aggressive growth rather than regular income.

Pros: Capital gains offer the potential for exceptionally high returns, especially when investing in high-growth companies or assets with rapid appreciation. You have complete control over when to "realize" this gain, giving you the flexibility to time your sale for strategic purposes, such as tax planning. In some jurisdictions, long-term capital gains are taxed at a lower rate than ordinary income, making this a potentially tax-efficient way to build wealth.

Cons: This is the riskiest of the three income types. The value of an asset is subject to market volatility, and there is no guarantee that it will appreciate. You could just as easily realize a "capital loss" if the asset's value drops. Because the return is only earned upon sale, it is not a reliable source of consistent income.




Conclusion: A Balanced Approach to Investing

Choosing between dividend income, interest income, and capital gains is not an "either-or" decision. A well-diversified portfolio often includes a strategic mix of all three to achieve a balance between stability, growth, and income generation. A young investor with a high-risk tolerance and a long-term horizon might favor a portfolio heavily weighted toward capital gains, while a retiree seeking a steady income might prioritize dividend and interest-paying investments. By understanding the unique characteristics of each, you can align your investments with your personal financial goals and build a robust portfolio designed for long-term success.



INVESTMENT GUIDE: What are Dividend Income, Interest Income, and Capital Gains


OwnBank is the digital banking arm of The Rural Bank of Cavite City, Inc., a long-established lender founded in 1956. In October 2023, it officially launched its mobile banking app, transforming itself from a traditional rural bank into a tech-driven financial platform.



While not yet a licensed “digital bank” under the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ digital banking framework, OwnBank operates under its rural bank license, is regulated by the BSP, and all deposits are insured by the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) up to ₱1,000,000 per depositor.

Loading...

Services Offered by OwnBank

OwnBank offers a variety of services through its mobile app, including:

  • Savings Accounts – with competitive interest rates credited daily.

  • Time Deposits – short- and long-term placements with high fixed returns.

  • Fund Transfers – via InstaPay and PESONet, free for in-network transfers.

  • Bills Payment & Load Purchases – pay utilities, credit cards, and buy mobile load directly from the app.

  • Debit Card Services – virtual and physical Mastercard debit cards for online and in-store purchases.

  • Upcoming Features – QR code payments, remittance services, and expanded payment integration.



Interest You Can Earn

One of OwnBank’s main selling points is its high interest rates:

  • 7-Day Time Deposit Promo for New Users: Up to 8% p.a.

  • Flexible Time Deposit: Up to 7.5% p.a. with options to withdraw before maturity.

  • Own It Savings Account: Around 6% p.a., credited daily, with no lock-in period.

These rates are among the highest in the Philippine banking industry, making OwnBank especially attractive for savers looking to maximize returns.




How to Open an OwnBank Account

Opening an account with OwnBank is done entirely through its mobile app:

1. Download the OwnBank App


2. Register Your Account

  • Provide your full name, mobile number, and email address.

  • Set up a secure password.

3. Verify Your Identity (KYC)

  • Prepare a valid government-issued ID (Philippine passport, driver’s license, UMID, etc.).

  • Take a selfie and complete the live verification steps.

4. Fund Your Account

  • Deposit money via InstaPay, PESONet, or over-the-counter partner channels.

5. Start Saving or Investing

  • Choose between the Own It daily interest savings or fixed-term time deposits.


💡 Tip: Verification can sometimes take a while based on user reports, so ensure your ID photos are clear and that your mobile connection is stable during KYC.

If you are looking for low-interest loans, here's my list of Personal Loans With the Lowest Interest Rates in the Philippines.


Tips for Using Digital Banks Wisely


Stay Within PDIC Coverage: Keep your deposits within ₱1,000,000 per bank to ensure full insurance protection.

Diversify Your Accounts: Don’t put all your savings in one digital bank; spread across 2–3 to reduce risk from service outages.

Enable Security Features: Use two-factor authentication, biometric logins, and strong passwords.

Monitor Interest Rate Changes: Digital banks can adjust rates anytime, so check periodically.

Have a Backup Access to Funds: Keep an account in a traditional bank for emergencies in case the app experiences downtime.





OwnBank’s Edge Over Other Digital Banks

OwnBank stands out mainly for its exceptionally high interest rates and daily crediting of savings interest, which lets your money compound faster. Its flexible time deposit options with high yields give it an edge over many digital banks that only offer standard savings accounts.

Additionally, its tie-up with Mastercard makes it easy to spend your funds locally or abroad, both online and in physical stores—something not all digital banks in the Philippines currently provide. For savers who want maximum earnings with the convenience of digital banking, OwnBank can be an attractive option, especially if paired with a traditional bank for backup liquidity.



Other Digital Banks in the Philippines

Visit my list of Top Digital Savings Banks in the Philippines to learn more!

OwnBank Philippines: Profile and Services (High-Yield Savings and Time Deposits)


As the new school year approaches, the Department of Education (DepEd) is once again reminding all public elementary and secondary schools nationwide about the strict implementation of its "No Collection Policy." This long-standing directive aims to ensure that no student is deprived of education due to financial constraints, upholding the constitutional right to free basic education.



What is DepEd's "No Collection Policy"?

The "No Collection Policy" strictly prohibits all forms of mandatory contributions and fees from students, especially during enrollment and the crucial first months of classes. This measure is designed to alleviate the financial burden on parents and guardians, ensuring that access to public education remains unhampered for all, particularly for families from marginalized sectors.


Loading...

Key Provisions of the Policy

Based on various DepEd Orders, including DepEd Order No. 19, s. 2008, and reiterations in subsequent issuances like DepEd Order No. 41, s. 2012, and DepEd Memorandum No. 143, s. 2016, the policy specifies:

  • No Mandatory Fees: Schools are explicitly prohibited from collecting any fees or contributions from students, from kindergarten to Grade 12, at any time during the enrollment period.

  • Voluntary Contributions Only (with conditions): While Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs) and other school organizations may accept voluntary contributions, these must be truly optional. They cannot be a prerequisite for admission, enrollment, or accessing school services.



  • Transparency and Accountability: If voluntary contributions are collected, these must be done with full transparency, proper accounting, and through resolutions made by PTAs or school organizations, not by school personnel themselves. Collection should also only occur later in the school year, usually after the initial enrollment period.

  • Prohibited Acts: Schools are forbidden from compelling students to purchase specific items (like school uniforms, graduation rings, or certain school supplies from specific vendors) as a condition for attendance or graduation.



DepEd's rationale behind this steadfast policy is to ensure that every Filipino child, regardless of their family's economic status, has equal opportunity to pursue basic education. The department provides various funds, including Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses (MOOE), to cover essential school needs and operations.



What Parents and Guardians Should Do

Parents and guardians are encouraged to be vigilant and report any instances of forced collections or mandatory fees imposed by schools or school personnel. Such reports can be made to the respective Schools Division Offices (SDOs) or directly to the DepEd Regional Offices.

By consistently enforcing the "No Collection Policy," DepEd reaffirms its commitment to providing accessible, quality, and equitable basic education to all Filipino learners.


RELATED ARTICLES


What is DepEd's 'No Collection Policy'?

Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)