THE Commission on Audit (COA) has required the immediate refund of P3.792 million distributed under the government’s social amelioration program (SAP) to 632 ineligible beneficiaries in Cebu City, and directed the City Legal Office to conduct further investigation and file charges.
State auditors also asked Cebu City officials to explain why over P1.5 million in special risk allowances were granted to non-public health workers. If the explanation is untenable, those who approved the release must refund the amount.
Other items flagged by COA in its annual audit report:
- Procurement of 20,000 pieces of KN95 was overpriced by P1.34 million;
- Rice worth P67.37 million was purchased from “unqualified” suppliers;
- The City failed to comply with documentary requirements and procedures in the procurement of 1,670 boxes of rapid antibody test kits worth P42.5 million;
- The City failed to submit the summary or list of donations received and distributed, and balance, and its supporting documents, as well as the required one-time report for cash and in-kind donations; and
- Construction of the Cebu City Quarantine Center was not covered by a construction agreement between the City and Leda Construction Inc. nor by a notice to proceed.