The Department of Education (DepEd) deeply mourns the loss of one of its greatest officials in the person of Francis M. Varela, Undersecretary for Finance and Administration.
Usec. Varela has been very instrumental in forging ahead education reforms particularly in ensuring that every cent in the education budget is spent judiciously. He was a staunch advocate of anti-corruption efforts in the Department and played a very important role in instituting reforms to ensure that ethical standards are observed in all transactions involving the agency.
A highly principled man, a sharp mind, a willingness to make tough decisions, and the compassion for the Filipino learner were all hallmarks of Usec. Varela's five years in DepEd.
We are one with his family in this difficult time and one with the nation in mourning the loss of an extraordinary public servant.
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