CoA flags DoT over P4.4M in out-of-town seminars

The Commission on Audit (CoA) has criticized the Department of Tourism (DoT) for spending P4.4 million on out-of-town seminars and workshops in 2023, suggesting the costs could have been avoided if these activities were held in Metro Manila or nearby provinces.

A CoA review of the DoT’s financial transactions revealed that the P4,367,316.67 spent on these activities was part of an overall P6.8 million in additional expenses incurred due to internal control deficiencies.

State auditors highlighted that a significant portion of the P4.4 million was used for airfare, ferry rides, vehicle rentals, and toll fees. They argued that these costs could have been reduced if the DoT adhered to guidelines limiting out-of-town events.

Vehicle rentals, including drivers, accounted for the second-largest share of the total expenses, despite the availability of drivers in regional offices.

“These savings could have been allocated to fund other projects more beneficial to the public,” the CoA stated.

Unnecessary expenses identified

The audit also flagged P348,787 spent on accommodations and van rentals for a "familiarization tour" in Siargao, deemed unnecessary, as well as P105,000 for same-day edit videos of highlights from seven events.

CoA noted that these additional expenses violated Section 2 of the Government Auditing Code of the Philippines, which requires government resources to be managed and utilized in accordance with the law and regulations.

In response, the DoT explained that the van rentals were necessary to transport resource speakers, participants, supplies, and materials to event venues, ensuring the efficient conduct of site assessments and surveys.

However, CoA countered that the DoT could have opted for less expensive vehicle rentals when passenger numbers were low, provided that the vehicles met the participants' needs.

“Additionally, it is advisable for management to provide photographs of the actual use of the van hires so that the auditors can better evaluate the necessity and propriety of the transactions,” CoA recommended.