GOVERNMENT auditors have questioned P1.9 million expenses made by the municipal government of Bauko, Mountain Province in 2021 for being contrary to guidelines on the use of Aid to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS).
In the 2021 audit report, the local government was found to have used P1,896,922.53 for the purchase of antigen test kits, drugs and medicines, and medical equipment as part of its COVID-19 response.
The Commission on Audit, however, noted that under Memorandum Circular No. 11 issued by the Department of Social Welfare and Development in 2019, primary health care service was not listed among the program to be funded by the AICS.
It clarified that the AICS was intended as a monetary support in the form of outright cash releases or guarantee letter to augment the resources of beneficiaries. Among the specific purposes listed were transportation, medical, burial, educational, food, and cash assistance for support services.
Also covered are psychosocial intervention and referral to legal services and psychological/emotional issues.
“The primary health care services are considered ineligible expenses under the AICS program since these are not among the integrated services provided under Item VI.1 of DSWD MC No. 11,” the COA said.
The audit team likewise found that the antigen kits were being sold to needy municipal residents.
“In fact, the COVID-19 antigen test kits were being sold at P750.00 each so it does not actually classify as an aid/assistance,” it pointed out.
Since the money used for the transactions were charged against the AICS, the COA said available funds for the poor, marginalized, and vulnerable in-crisis individuals were “significantly diminished.”
The municipal government assured the COA that it has discontinued charging non-integrated expenses from the AICS program and has notified related offices of the audit findings.
