The
continuous distribution of funds for priority programs and projects of the
legislators or congressmen is to secure on the principle that these priority
subjects would improve the living condition of the poor. It is believed to be
one of the best ways for the progress of the lives of underprivileged sector of
the society. But what would you feel if you knew that the government officials
are not doing their job and worse, they do invisible projects or programs to
take the money or benefits that community people must be receiving from the
government funds.
Local Government Units (LGU) was identified as among the
implementers of the projects under six categories:
(c) Commission on Audit
A total
of ₱2.034 Billion was released by the Department of Budget and Management
(DBM) to the selected LGUs. The Audit revealed that the consumption of PDAF
released to LGUs for soft projects were not appropriate in the submitted
reports or expenditures amounting ₱1.289 Billion as examined by the COA are not compliant with the existing rules and regulations
with large amounts supported with questionable documents. Moreover,
transactions amounting to ₱234.13 Million were not documented.
Medical
missions, feeding programs and similar activities have no proof to support the
conduct of such activities. Financial assistance was released to various
individuals and associations without any documentary support to assess the
actual needs and requirements and eligibility under the program. Burial
assistance without death certificates and educational assistance was released
without school records and scholarship contracts and livelihood assistance
without project profile.
The use
of government funds without proper documentation is completely a violation of
the law. It’s the time for us to be aware and take action for corrupt officials
to be penalized for what they’ve done. I believe our country is not poor if
only we have true leaders that will serve right to its people.
