Audit body flags documentation gaps in VP relief operations worth P168M

MANILA — The Commission on Audit has raised fresh concerns about the handling of approximately P168 million in disaster relief operations conducted by the Office of the Vice President, citing documentation gaps that require clarification.

The audit body's findings compound existing questions surrounding the VP's management of confidential and discretionary funds, issues that have already become central to impeachment proceedings against Duterte in recent weeks.

According to COA's preliminary assessment, the relief operations attributed to the vice president's office contained either missing documentation or inconsistencies in records that would normally support such large-scale humanitarian expenditures.

The audit findings have prompted calls for a more thorough review of the office's financial transactions and operational procedures. As the investigation continues, officials are expected to provide additional documentation to address the identified discrepancies.

The development marks the latest in a series of financial management questions surrounding the vice president's office, with multiple government bodies now engaged in examining various aspects of fund utilization under her administration.