OVP Failed to Submit Receipts for Confidential Fund Purchases to COA

The Office of the Vice President (OVP) has failed to submit supporting documents, such as receipts, to the Commission on Audit (COA) for purchases made using its confidential funds, a witness revealed. According to auditor Roderick Wamil, the OVP, under Vice President Sara Duterte, submitted acknowledgment receipts for the purchase of tables and chairs amounting to P500,000, and desktops, computers, and printers worth P3 million. However, he stated that these were the only supporting documents and that official sales invoices or receipts were not attached. "They do not indicate if those purchases were really intended for the confidential operations of the OVP," Wamil said, adding that purchases should have been supported with sales invoices and official receipts instead of just acknowledgment receipts. "They did not attach any receipt," he added. Lawyer Michael Poa, representing the OVP, declined to comment and advised the public to wait for the defense's cross-examination. This development raises questions about the transparency and accountability of the use of public funds, particularly confidential funds, which are often subject to scrutiny due to their sensitive nature. The proper submission of financial documentation is crucial for ensuring the integrity of government spending and preventing misuse of funds. The OVP's adherence to auditing procedures is under observation, especially in light of the public's demand for fiscal responsibility. Information Source: GMA News Philippines