A local group expressed disappointment over the absence of Mataasnakahoy town Mayor Janet Ilagan and Vice Mayor Jay Manalo Ilagan during a congressional inquiry into alleged misuse of public funds and other irregularities.

Antonio A. Alabata, authorized representative of the People’s Coalition Against Crime and Corruption Group, said the officials were invited to clarify the allegations, particularly the town’s P5 million cash deficit in 2021 and questionable Covid-19 response disbursements.

“They should have attended the hearing. If they have nothing to conceal, I do not see any reason why they should evade the hearing,” Alabata said.

The congressional inquiry, conducted on 18 December 2024, was initiated by a resolution filed by Representatives Robert Raymond Estrella, Danilo Fernadez, Romeo Momo, Jose Arturo Garcia, and Roy Loyola.

The resolution aimed to promote transparency and accountability and assess the need for amendments to procurement and auditing laws.

The Commission on Audit has been tasked to conduct a special fraud audit as part of the investigation.

Meantime, Ilagan, instead of attending the hearing, denied the allegations on the town’s official Facebook page. The congressional committee is expected to invite the officials again for the next hearing.