MANILA — Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua has ordered the removal of Education Minister Mohagher Iqbal following a Commission on Audit (COA) report that uncovered major irregularities in the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education’s (MBHTE) procurement activities involving around P2.2 billion in funds.
In a letter dated May 11, 2026, Macacua directed Iqbal to submit an immediate irrevocable resignation upon receipt of the order or be deemed resigned by the end of office hours on May 18, 2026.
The COA report cited multiple violations, including the MBHTE’s failure to impose liquidated damages amounting to P1.06 million despite a 520-day delay in the delivery of P30.9 million worth of school armchairs intended for primary learners. The audit noted breaches of Republic Act 9184 and its 2016 revised implementing rules, as well as contractual provisions with suppliers.
It further revealed that 53 contracts worth P1.95 billion were awarded despite procurement defects, such as improperly identified joint venture bidders, delayed posting of performance securities, and misstatements in sworn declarations. These lapses should have resulted in the contractors’ disqualification, according to the COA.
The report also flagged cases where performance securities were not timely posted, leaving the government without assurance of supplier compliance. One firm, CNX Mini Mart, was also noted for failing to submit required securities for a P4.7-million Education Summit project.
Additionally, 73 disbursement vouchers totaling P2.24 million were processed and paid without complete supporting documentation, relying only on internal certifications.
Macacua said the COA has already issued initial notices of disallowance and warned that more are expected. He stressed that the findings put governance reforms at risk and have damaged public trust in BARMM institutions.
ia/xf
