Findings from the Commission on Audit on the handling of more than P2.2 billion in education funds in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao have intensified scrutiny not only on procedures but on leadership and accountability within the region’s education ministry.
The audit observations involving the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education outlined a pattern of transactions and procurement practices that analysts say point to systemic weaknesses in oversight.
According to state auditors, Among the most notable findings was the release of P1.77 billion for textbooks reportedly processed within a single day, a pace that has raised concerns over whether standard verification and control mechanisms were effectively applied.
COA also flagged the disbursement of P449 million to a single supplier for learning kits, prompting questions about procurement competitiveness and safeguards against concentration of contracts.
Furthermore, a total of 73 disbursement vouchers were processed with limited documentation, according to the audit, indicating gaps in internal controls and compliance requirements meant to ensure transparency in the use of public funds.
COA xamination also showed that 53 contracts amounting to nearly P2 billion were affected by deficiencies, including missing performance securities and issues involving joint venture representations.
In one case cited by auditors, a supplier delivered armchairs 520 days beyond the agreed timeline, with penalties estimated at P16 million reportedly not enforced – an instance seen by observers as indicative of weak contract management.
While the findings focus on procedural lapses, government auditors noted that the scale and repetition of such issues suggest broader institutional challenges that extend to leadership responsibility.
The audit has drawn attention to the role of MBHTE leadership under Minister Mohagher Iqbal, as questions emerge over how oversight systems were implemented and monitored during the period covered.
The situation also intersects with earlier concerns raised by the Second Congressional Commission on Education regarding persistent gaps in BARMM’s education sector.
COA has recommended tighter adherence to procurement laws, improved documentation, and strengthened internal controls, measures that observers say will require not only administrative adjustments but sustained leadership direction.
As BARMM officials review the audit findings, the issue is expected to test the region’s governance framework, particularly how accountability is enforced at higher levels of decision-making.
