OVP's transactions flagged anew by COA; lawmaker cites 'consistency'

The Philippine Commission on Audit (COA) has once again flagged transactions of the Office of the Vice President (OVP) under Sara Duterte, this time concerning its 2025 Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Fund. In response, Batangas Rep. Gerville Luistro, speaking at a press briefing, sarcastically commented, "It seems that the Office of the Vice President has been consistent in getting flagged by the audit commission (COA) for questionable transactions." According to the COA report, the OVP faces multiple observations regarding the utilization of the DRRM Fund. These include insufficient supporting documents for certain expenditures and doubts about the procurement process. Specifically, deficiencies in the records related to the purchase of relief goods and payments for related services were cited. The COA is responsible for auditing government agencies in the Philippines, playing a crucial role in monitoring the proper use of public funds. The DRRM Fund, in particular, is vital for protecting citizens' lives and property, demanding the utmost transparency and accountability in its execution. Luistro's remarks underscored that these recent COA findings come in the context of similar concerns previously raised about the OVP. He urged the OVP to adopt more stringent accounting practices and enhance its disclosure of information, emphasizing that fulfilling accountability is essential to maintaining public trust. This issue raises broader discussions in Philippine politics concerning transparency, accountability, and the proper utilization of public funds, especially critical in disaster preparedness measures that directly impact the safety and welfare of the citizenry.