‘Stricter auditing on funds of LGUs, gov’t agencies’
The Commission on Audit (COA) is set to implement stricter and rigid process in auditing the funds and budgets used by local government units (LGUs) and government agencies.
COA Commissioner Juanito G. Espino Jr. said this is necessary especially that some LGUs were found to have released bonuses that are beyond the limit allowed by the Department of Budget and Management and the Local Government Code.
Espino said they will also thoroughly audit the works of government agencies to make sure that the public funds and budget allotted to them by the national government are properly used.
He said that COA will definitely require LGUs and government agencies to explain discrepancies in their reports and pursue criminal and administrative cases against violators, if necessary.
Espino said the COA is now implementing new strategies in auditing to save money for the national coffers. This is also in light of various reports wherein LGUs and government agencies have been giving illegal bonuses to employees.
Espino, an Ilonggo, was in Iloilo City recently to lead the turn-over of wheelchairs to crippled children and beneficiaries in Iloilo province.*PNA
