Review program under scrutiny

LAGUNA — Questions have been raised over the implementation of a free civil service examination review program of the Provincial Government of Laguna following allegations involving the distribution of financial assistance to participants.

Complainants alleged that participants were asked to sign documents indicating they would receive P15,500 each and were photographed holding the amount, but were allegedly given only P1,000 to take home.

The allegations are reportedly contained in sworn statements that are being obtained for independent verification.

Questions have also been raised over alleged college diplomas reportedly provided by a program coordinator to participants who were not college graduates.

It remains unclear who prepared the documents, why they were allegedly provided, whether they were used in connection with the program, or whether they were submitted to the Civil Service Commission or any other government agency.

The provincial program reportedly opened around 1,000 slots for applicants seeking free preparation for the civil service examination.

The alleged discrepancy between the amount participants were asked to acknowledge and the amount they reportedly received raises questions about the program’s budget, disbursement and liquidation.

However, the allegations have yet to be independently established through the sworn statements and supporting financial and program records.

The Provincial Government of Laguna is being sought for its response and clarification on the program’s approved budget, the amount authorized per participant, the reported P15,500 acknowledgment, the alleged P1,000 actual payout, and the circumstances surrounding the purported college diplomas.

The allegations remain subject to verification. No finding of wrongdoing has been made against the provincial government or any individual involved in the program.