MANILA, Philippines – The House of Representatives is set to launch an inquiry into the alleged misuse of public funds by the Bangsamoro Government. The House Committee on Public Accounts, along with other concerned committees, will spearhead the investigation to ensure transparency and accountability in the handling of government resources.
The probe follows allegations raised by Lanao del Sur Representative Zia Alonto Adiong, who disclosed irregularities involving the misallocation of funds intended for local government units (LGUs) in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). According to reports, funds from the Bangsamoro Government were deposited into the accounts of barangays in Lanao del Sur without prior notice or request from the concerned local officials.
A House Resolution (No. 2199) was filed on January 27, 2025, by Representatives Adiong, Mujiv Hataman, Munir Arbison Jr., Samier Tan, Yasser Balindong, Mohammad “Tong” Paglas, and Shernee Tan-Tambut. The resolution directs the Committee on Public Accounts and other relevant committees to investigate the alleged financial irregularities involving the Bangsamoro Government’s Local Government Support Fund (LGSF), which amounts to P6.356 billion under the 2024 General Appropriations Act of the Bangsamoro.
Allegations of Fund Misuse
Among the key concerns raised in the resolution include:
- Unnotified Fund Transfers: Barangay LGUs in Lanao del Sur reportedly received amounts ranging from P500,000 to P2.5 million without prior request or notification.
- Irregular Withdrawals: Barangay officials were allegedly instructed by individuals claiming to be Bangsamoro Government representatives to withdraw the funds and return most of the money, keeping only P200,000 per transaction.
- Political Bias in Fund Distribution: The LGSF was reportedly used to benefit LGUs aligned with the United Bangsamoro Justice Party (UBJP), the ruling party in the BARMM, while non-affiliated areas, including Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao del Sur, were excluded from fund allocations.
- Election-Related Spending: The fund disbursement was allegedly timed to serve as a financial advantage for the UBJP ahead of the upcoming national, local, and BARMM parliamentary elections.
Call for Accountability
The resolution emphasizes that these allegations, if proven, could constitute serious breaches of public trust and violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (RA 3019). Lawmakers stressed that public office is a public trust, and any misuse of government funds undermines governance and service delivery in the Bangsamoro region.
The House of Representatives aims to ensure that mechanisms are put in place to prevent similar incidents in the future, protecting public funds and promoting transparency and efficiency in government operations.
The investigation is expected to commence soon, with affected LGUs, civil society organizations, and key officials of the Bangsamoro Government summoned to provide testimonies and evidence related to the alleged irregularities.