THE Commission on Audit (COA) has recommended that the Dagupan City government initiate legal actions against a private security agency for deploying unarmed security guards even if it collected full payments last year totaling P10.72 million.
In the 2020 audit report released last May 7, the COA said contractor Stouthearted Security Agency Inc. had the obligation to provide security personnel “with necessary serviceable, dependable firearms and ammunitions” as well as metal detectors and “adequate communications equipment.”
“Physical inspection and interview revealed that the security personnel were only provided with writing pen, notebook and duty checklist. This is way too short of the mandatory basic equipment and the necessary firearms to properly and effectively perform their duties and responsibilities,” the audit team said.
Auditors also said there was no submission of proof that fair salaries and benefits were actually paid to the security guards, who rendered duty as required under the New Labor Code and the Social Security Act.
Without the most basic equipment for the security guards on duty, the COA said it appears the city government did not get the services it paid good money for as the city’s properties were not adequately secured.
“In effect, the properties, projects and personnel of the City Government of Dagupan were not assured of protection from the Security Agency,” the audit team pointed out.
The City Legal Office said it has issued “stern warning” on the security agency and demanded submission of complete documentation proving payment for services of security guards subject to termination or non-renewal of contracts unless fully complied with.
