Consolacion wants COA proposals put into effect

CEBU, Philippines - The municipal council of Consolacion has approved a proposed resolution requesting Mayor Teresa Alegado to implement recommendations made by the Commission on Audit last December 31 with regards to alleged misappropriations that took place during the previous administration.

The Commission on Audit report as of Dec. 31, 2010 has found out that the Special Education Fund of Consolacion town was used for purposes other than what was intended under Section 272 of the Local Government Code, such as the construction of the Consolacion Community College building and other structures, and the purchase of furniture and fixtures totaling P6,337,989.92.

The COA noted that it defeated the purpose of which the fund was created and deprived the public elementary and high schools of the projects or benefits that could have been afforded to them.

These transactions were paid during the incumbency of then mayor Avelino Gungob, Sr., the COA report said.

The municipal treasurer and the accountant justified before COA officials they had initially opposed and explained to the former mayor regarding the proper utilization of Special Education Fund (SEF) but then he insisted in pursuing the processing, approval, and payment thereof.

COA recommended that henceforth Special Education Fund should be used only for the purpose for which it is intended as provided under Section 272 and other pertinent applicable laws, rules and regulations to avoid penal and administrative sanctions and expenditures shall be focused only on the implementation of projects intended for the elementary and secondary schools, formulated, authorized and approved by the local school board. (FREEMAN)