11 Tudela town projects defy DILG, DBM rules

CEBU - The Commission on Audit-7 discovered that 11 projects implemented in Tudela town are not in accordance with the provisions of the Department of Interior and Local Government and the Department of Budget and Management circular.

State auditors said this is why efficiency in the implementation of projects charged under the 20-percent development fund cannot be easily evaluated.

The 11 projects, which cost P1,314,272.20, includes sports development, repair and maintenance of vehicles, public buildings, parks and plaza, barangays and infrastructure subsidy, senior citizen evaluation and children’s program and rights development.

Section 2.3 and 3 of the Joint Memorandum Circular No. 1 of the DILG and DBM states that all projects to be funded shall contribute to the attainment of desirable socio-economic development and environmental management outcomes, the nature of investment and capital expenditures and the cost recovery and entrepreneurship.

COA also reminded the town that the memorandum provides that the appropriations for development projects shall not include items for personal services. The commission already communicated with the town officials but no reply has been received.

Nevertheless, COA reminded the heads of municipal planning and development, treasury department and budget office to identify and prioritize all projects to be charged to the 20-percent development fund. —Garry B. Lao/BRP (THE FREEMAN)