MANILA – Malacañang on Friday welcomed the Commission on Audit’s (COA) decision affirming the disallowance of over PHP73 million in confidential funds of the Office of the Vice President (OVP), saying it reinforces the administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability in public spending.
Speaking at a press briefing in Iloilo City, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the ruling contradicts earlier claims that the funds were properly utilized.
“Pinapakita lang nito na ang sinasabing maayos at transparent na paggamit ng pondo ay taliwas sa naging desisyon ng COA,” Castro said, referring to the audit body’s findings.
She stressed that the government supports decisive action from oversight agencies, particularly in addressing financial irregularities.
Castro added that disallowance findings should be treated seriously and may require further steps when warranted.
Reiterating the administration’s stance, she said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. remains firm in pursuing a corruption-free government.
“Ang layunin ng Pangulo ay isang malinis na pamahalaan, kaya mahalaga ang mabilis na aksyon ng mga ahensya,” she said.
She also underscored the role of institutions such as the COA and the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) in ensuring fiscal discipline and accountability.
The COA earlier issued a notice of disallowance covering PHP73.287 million in confidential expenses incurred by the OVP from Dec. 21 to 31, 2022. The amount includes nearly PHP70 million for rewards and PHP3.5 million for equipment purchases.
Under the ruling, the OVP has been directed to refund the disallowed amount to the government.
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