The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has issued a warning on individuals and groups claiming capacity to expedite the release of government funds.
In a circular, the DBM said there have been reports that some parties have been claiming to have the ability to release special allotment release order (SARO) and notice of cash allocation (NCA) for projects under the General Appropriations Act (GAA).
“We strongly advise all National Governments Agencies (NGAs), Local Government Units (LGUs) and all others concerned to refrain from entertaining or transacting with such individuals/organized groups,” the DBM cautioned.
The DBM does not grant authority to anyone to “coordinate, more so solicit any amount” from local governments and agencies to fast track fund release.
Because of this, the DBM will directly deal with agency heads and local chief executives regarding fund release. It will “refrain from divulging the status or details of fund releases in case of phone queries” to prevent disclosure of important details to unauthorized people.
All agencies and LGUs have been advised to report attempts or incidents of fixing fund releases. – Report from Naomi Tiburcio
