Ombudsman warns officials after gov't worker charged over unaccounted cash

The Office of the Ombudsman has issued a stern reminder to all government officials and employees regarding the proper liquidation of cash advances, emphasizing that failure to account for such funds violates the Revised Penal Code. The advisory came after authorities filed charges against an employee of the Bogo Water District in Cebu who allegedly failed to settle a P19,000 cash advance. The case underscores recurring compliance issues within the civil service sector, where cash advance accountability remains a persistent concern among various government agencies. Officials are required by law to liquidate cash advances within prescribed periods and provide proper documentation of expenditures. The Ombudsman's office stressed that employees who neglect this obligation face potential criminal charges and administrative sanctions, urging stricter adherence to financial management protocols across all government instrumentalities throughout the country.