Audit body questions Sandiganbayan's documentation of official foreign trips

The Commission on Audit (COA) has cited the Sandiganbayan for insufficient documentation relating to overseas travel by its officials and employees, according to the agency's 2025 audit report. The high court faces questions over P11.87 million in cash advances that were distributed last year to cover international trips by judicial personnel. COA's findings underscore recurring compliance issues at the anti-graft tribunal regarding record management and travel accountability procedures. The audit flagged the lack of proper supporting documents to justify the cash disbursements and validate the official nature of the foreign missions undertaken. The Sandiganbayan has been directed to strengthen its documentation systems and ensure all future international travel complies with COA requirements and government audit standards. The development adds to broader concerns about fiscal oversight among high-level institutions in the Philippine judiciary.