COA flags DepEd over P8B deficiencies in BE-LCP fund

State auditors have flagged the Department of Education (DepEd) over deficiencies amounting to P8.136 billion in its Basic Education Learning Continuity Plan (BE-LCP) amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Commission on Audit noted alleged lapses in budget utilization, flawed or delayed procurement and delivery of self-learning modules, and the non-compliance with Republic Act 9184 or the Government Procurement Reform Act.

According to COA, the DepEd CO management explained that the processing of requesting sub-allotment release orders was prolonged due to delays of the program owners in requesting the downloading of funds.

“Besides, the process was also hampered because of the challenges brought up by the work arrangements adopted during this time of the pandemic,” it said.

Though COA said it recognizes challenges amid the pandemic, it also emphasized that the program should not be affected by the "setback."

“[T]he implementation of the program should not be affected by the setback in the timely release of the fund to maximize the benefits that can be derived therefrom and to assure the overall preparedness of the implementing schools in order to continue students’ learning amidst the threat and uncertainties brought about by the pandemic,” it said.

COA also recommended for DepEd to revisit existing procedures in the downloading of funds by developing a clear policy defining, among others, a timetable on the release of sub-allotment release orders.

Meanwhile, DepEd said the deficiencies cited by COA were identified as recording errors. It added that these are currently being rectified by the agency in accordance with the recommendations.

“DepEd wishes to emphasize that none of the initial findings pertained to corruption, malversation of public funds, negligence, or the betrayal of public trust,” it said.

“The nature of the observation issued by the Commission is a way for the audited agency to rectify deficiencies and improve the management of its budget through the former’s recommendation,” it added.

During his talk to the people on Monday, President Rodrigo Duterte told COA to stop "flagging" government agencies, adding that it was tantamount to "flogging", spelling out both terms.

Meanwhile, Albay Representative Edcel Lagman said Duterte has no authority to stop COA from performing its constitutional mandate. —KBK, GMA News