“COA’s diligence in bringing financial discrepancies to light serves as a safeguard for public funds and accountability”
In a recent revelation from the Commission on Audit, the Department of Education has come under scrutiny for its failure to remit P4.4 billion in premiums and loan payments to the Government Service Insurance System.
This significant lapse, outlined in the 2022 annual audit report, raises critical questions about financial management within one of the country’s vital government agencies.
Kudos must be given to COA and its Chairman, Gamaliel A. Cordoba, for conducting a thorough and comprehensive audit, bringing to light the non-remittance of GSIS contributions and loan amortizations.
The audit not only identifies the financial discrepancies but also emphasizes the potential consequences for teaching and non-teaching personnel, exposing them to penalties and limitations in enjoying GSIS privileges and benefits.
Region 6, with an unremitted amount of P2.19 billion, has the highest share of the discrepancy, followed by Region 9 with P580.8 million.
This calls attention to the localized nature of the issue, emphasizing the need for targeted solutions across different regions.
The audit reveals a concerning pattern with several regions accumulating substantial unremitted GSIS dues, including Region 5, Region 4-A, Region 3, National Capital Region, and others.
This inconsistency demands urgent attention to rectify the situation and prevent further financial strain on the affected personnel.
COA rightly points out that timely remittance is crucial for members to access privileges and benefits rightfully due to them.
The failure of DepEd offices to remit premium contributions not only denies employees loan privileges but also deprives them of dividends and other benefits, causing undue harm.
COA’s recommendation for DepEd to require prompt remittance, impose sanctions on responsible employees, and rectify the situation is a step in the right direction.
Accountability and adherence to timelines are essential to ensure the proper functioning of government agencies and safeguard the welfare of their employees.
The response from seven DepEd regions, committing to specific actions, is a positive sign. Issuing memoranda, assigning trained personnel, updating records, and facilitating remittances are necessary steps to address the issue at its roots.
However, it is crucial to monitor the implementation of these actions and ensure their effectiveness in resolving the problem.
DepEd’s collaboration with GSIS, as highlighted by spokesperson Michael Poa, is a positive development.
Regular meetings and the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) demonstrate a commitment to resolving the issues at hand.
The provision of account officers dedicated to DepEd personnel concerns is a proactive step that can streamline communication and problem resolution.
Yet, the focus must be on concrete outcomes. Ongoing reconciling activities between DepEd and GSIS, as well as steps taken to address previous financial irregularities, are encouraging. The assurance that COA rendered an Unqualified Opinion in favor of DepEd for 2022 indicates progress but also underscores the need for sustained effort to prevent a recurrence.
Recommendations moving forward involve a continued collaborative effort between DepEd and GSIS.
The memorandum of agreement should be effectively implemented, with clear lines of responsibility and accountability.
Regular monitoring and reporting mechanisms should be established to track progress and address emerging challenges promptly.
Additionally, DepEd should consider internal reforms in financial management, including enhanced transparency and oversight.
The creation of mechanisms to prevent unauthorized or unnecessary transactions, as seen in the P362-million worth of dormant bank accounts, is crucial.
Periodic internal audits can help identify and address potential issues before they escalate.
In conclusion, COA’s diligence in bringing financial discrepancies to light serves as a safeguard for public funds and accountability.
DepEd’s collaboration with GSIS and the steps outlined by the seven regions are positive signals, but tangible and sustained efforts are required to resolve the issue comprehensively. The ultimate goal should be to ensure that the financial management practices of government agencies align with the highest standards of transparency, efficiency, and accountability, safeguarding the welfare of their employees in the process.
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