Vice President's office denies funds lost despite audit deficiencies

The Office of the Vice President (OVP) moved to reassure stakeholders on Friday after the Commission on Audit (COA) identified recording defects in relief operations valued at approximately P168 million. While acknowledging the documentary shortcomings, the office emphasized that the discrepancies did not result in any financial loss. "No funds were lost in these transactions," the OVP said in a statement, adding that all disbursements have been properly traced and accounted for. The COA's audit findings centered on procedural and documentation issues rather than missing or misappropriated funds, according to the office's clarification. The OVP indicated it would work to address the audit observations and strengthen its record-keeping systems for future relief operations. The assurance comes as the office continues to face scrutiny over its financial management practices during the current administration.