The Center for Government Accountability and Review (CGAR) is keen to investigate alleged irregularities in the distribution of Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) funds.
However, the organization faces obstacles in conducting a thorough probe.
CGAR Executive Director, Atty. Kurt Bongabong, and former Tagbilaran City Mayor Dan Neri Lim, a CGAR member, shared these concerns during an interview with Ardy Araneta-Batoy over station DYTR.
Bongabong revealed that CGAR has encountered difficulties in obtaining information from various provincial government offices.
He expressed bewilderment at the sudden waning of support from the provincial government, which has hampered their investigative efforts.
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) was expected to investigate the matter, but the probe has been delayed.
Board Member Benjie Arcamo previously stated that the SP would address the issue after the executive department completed its internal investigation, for which a 30-day grace period was requested.
This period has since elapsed, and it remains unclear when the SP will tackle the issue.
Lim said that CGAR no longer has an office in the Capitol and seems to be receiving the cold shoulder from officials.
Despite these woes, he affirmed that CGAR would continue its advocacy for good governance.
Lim noted that while Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado once proudly supported CGAR’s creation, the organization was conspicuously absent from mention in the recent State of the Province Address (SOPA).
In a related development, Board Member Aldner Damalerio asserted that the provincial board should investigate the alleged AICS distribution irregularities.
During a guest appearance on Ardy Araneta-Batoy’s program, Damalerio cited the importance of addressing these allegations, as they directly affect Boholanos.
The controversy has persisted for several months without resolution, leading to the reported dismissal of two individuals allegedly involved in the irregularities.
Observers suggest that if left unresolved, this issue could become a significant point of contention in upcoming elections, potentially impacting the administration’s candidates seeking reelection.
The provincial board’s investigation has been repeatedly postponed as the executive department requested time for an internal probe.
Board members, including Damalerio, remain uninformed about the findings of this investigation, reports said.
Anti-corruption advocates and netizens have been calling for a swift and transparent resolution to address the multi-million AICS scam allegedly perpetrated by the office of Governor Aumentado.