The Commission on Audit (COA) has flagged alleged massive irregularities in more than ₱2.2 billion worth of education spending in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), citing missing documents and possible violations of procurement rules.
In a special fraud audit, state auditors found that payments under the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education, led by Minister Mohagher Iqbal, were processed and released despite lacking key documentary requirements.
The audit focused on two major transactions: ₱1.77 billion worth of textbooks released in a single day for school year 2025–2026, and ₱449 million paid to a single supplier for learner and teacher kits. At least 73 payment transactions were approved based solely on internal certifications.
“Due to the certifications made, the transactions were paid despite non-submission of the standard supporting documents, to the disadvantage of the government,” the report stated.
COA also flagged material defects in the awarding of 53 contracts worth ₱1.95 billion, including instances where joint venture bidders were not properly identified. In more than 40 projects amounting to nearly ₱1.5 billion, contracts were signed without the required performance security.
Auditors further noted the delayed delivery of school armchairs, which arrived 520 days late. Despite provisions under the Government Procurement Reform Act requiring penalties, about ₱16 million in fines were not imposed.
“Failure to submit comments within the prescribed period shall constrain the (special audit team) to finalize its findings based on the available records,” the report added.