Lanao Sur officials urged: Be transparent on fund use

MANILA, Philippines - A Mindanao-based anti-corruption watchdog has called for transparency in the disbursement of funds and implementation of various local and foreign-funded projects in Lanao del Sur.

Leaders of Sautol Haqq (Voice of the Truth) challenged Lanao del Sur Gov. Mamintal Adiong Jr. to open the books of the provincial government and allow the Commission on Audit (COA) to do its work following reports of alleged misuse of the province’s internal revenue allotment and foreign grants.

Lawyer Salic Dumarpa, one of the convenors of the group, said they have received various reports of alleged misuse of funds of the provincial government and many were backed by documents.

He said COA Chairperson Grace Pulido-Tan formed a special team last February to conduct an audit after the group filed a formal request and submitted documents that appear to back up their suspicions.

“We seek a peaceful resolution on the matter and appeal to the provincial government to be transparent in the disbursement of funds, and let the COA do its work,” he said.