THE House of Representatives has launched an investigation into the alleged misuse of P6.4 billion in Local Government Support Funds disbursed to the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
The probe, led by the House Committee on Public Accounts, began on Feb. 25 following concerns over fund distribution and utilization.
Hedjarah Mangompia-Said, team leader of the Barmm Commission on Audit, confirmed that P6.4 billion was released between August 2024 and January 2025.
However, she clarified that while the Ministry of Finance handles fund releases, local government auditors oversee implementation and spending.
“As far as the releases are concerned, the audit is still ongoing. We are reviewing records, transactions, and compliance with guidelines, but we cannot yet draw a final conclusion,” Mangompia-Said said.
The final audit report is expected by June 30, 2025.
Basilan Rep. Mujiv Hataman pointed out the importance of ensuring the funds reach intended beneficiaries.
Meanwhile, Lanao del Sur Rep. Zia Alonto-Adiong raised concerns over reports that more than 400 barangay officials found their Land Bank accounts credited with funds ranging from P500,000 to P2.5 million — only to be instructed to withdraw most of the money, leaving just P200,000 behind.
Adiong brought the matter to the House, calling for an investigation into the alleged scheme.
Further controversy arose when show-cause orders were issued to Barmm Parliament Speaker Pangalian Balindong and Cotabato City Mayor Mohammad Ali Matabalao for failing to attend the congressional inquiry.
According to COA, the LGSF allocation was as follows:
Basilan: P1,520,510,450
Lanao del Sur: P1,349,916,674
Maguindanao del Norte: P1,385,000,000
Maguindanao del Sur: P778,500,000
Tawi-Tawi: P1,000,000,000
Special Geographic Area (SGA): P413,021,076
The investigation continues as lawmakers push for accountability in fund distribution and expenditure.
