Millions of pesos intended for grassroots development in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have been deposited into village accounts under unusual circumstances, sparking allegations of fund misuse and calls for accountability.
Allegations of fund misuse have surfaced in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao ( BARMM ), prompting calls for accountability from officials and civil society groups. Millions of pesos, intended to support grassroots development, have been deposited into barangay (village) accounts with unusual circumstances. Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep.
Zia Alonto Adiong raised concerns about the alleged redirection of funds from the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF) during a privilege speech at the House of Representatives on January 27. Adiong reported that 400 village officials in Lanao del Sur received deposits ranging from P500,000 to P2.5 million. He alleged that individuals claiming to represent BARMM interim Chief Minister Ahod “Al Haj Murad” Ebrahim pressured these officials to withdraw most of the funds, leaving only P200,000 for unspecified “special operations.”Civil society organizations (CSOs) have joined the chorus of concern, raising questions about the arbitrary and partisan disbursement of these funds. They have called for a thorough investigation into the alleged irregularities. BARMM spokesperson Mohd Asnin Pendatun assured the public that officials would investigate the misuse claims and identify those who allegedly implicated Chief Minister Ebrahim. Adiong emphasized that local officials are responsible for the planning, implementation, and proper utilization of LGSF funds according to established guidelines and laws. Meanwhile, in Cotabato City, Vice Mayor Butch Abu requested a breakdown of LGSF projects after a reported P150 million deposit from BARMM’s Ministry of Finance, Budget and Management in December 2024. The city council has also expressed frustration over alleged attempts to withhold documents related to the fund
BARMM Corruption Funds Misuse Local Government Accountability
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