COA questions P6.7-M Marina execs’ bonuses

MANILA, Philippines - Officials and employees of the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) were irregularly given anniversary bonuses in 2013, according to a Commission on Audit (COA) report released yesterday.

The COA had disallowed the release of P15,000 in bonuses to each official and employee.

State auditors said Administrative Order No. 263 dated March 28, 1996 authorizes the granting of bonuses during milestone years.

“A milestone year refers to the 15th and every fifth year thereafter,” they said.

They said the 39th anniversary of Marina could not be considered as a milestone year under existing rules.

“Hence, the payment of anniversary bonus in the total amount of P6,708,750 constitutes an irregular expenditure,” state auditors said.

Notices of disallowance have been issued. Marina is appealing the order through COA’s legal service office.