In the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) audit, the auditors commented on low fund utilization or underutilized funds.
On the internet in public places and state universities and colleges, there is a P1.4 billion allotment, but the disbursed or released money is only P123 million.
According to the COA, the allocated budget that could have provided services to the public in the midst of the pandemic has not been used properly, especially since students study online.
The COA added that they had not received any response from the DICT.
Although unrelated to COVID-19 funding, audit reports continue to be released to other agencies, such as visits to the allegedly unnecessary infinity pool and additional rooms at the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) facility in San Fernando La Union, worth P10 million.
The PPA told the COA that although their mandate does not include the construction of the facilities, it could add to their income when used as a venue for local and international conventions.
But the COA maintained that the PPA reason was unacceptable because it was unnecessary and not in their mandate.
Also read: Philippines’ internet speed improving: DICT
COA flags DICT’s unutilized budget for public’s free internet
The auditors are adamant that if they just accept all the excuses of government agencies, they will all build facilities even if they are not necessary.
Meanwhile, one of the audit reports for the year 2020 is that of the Department of Education (DepEd), which found deficiencies or shortcomings in the processes for using P8.1 billion COVID-19 funds.
It said there were lapses in budget utilization and insufficient documents submitted to prove the correct expenditure, such as modules in the basic education learning continuity plan in the midst of the pandemic.
Incomplete or unavailable modules for students have also been noted, which has made it difficult for students to study now with the pandemic.
But in a statement, DepEd asserted that none of the COA’s findings refer to corruption, malversation of public funds, negligence, and betrayal of public trust.
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