P13.88-billion price range proposed for Fee on Audit for 2026

COA is initially requesting P16.21 billion for 2026, which is 28.96% increased than its 2025 allocation

MANILA, Philippines – The Fee on Audit (COA) is searching for P16.21-billion price range for 2026, however the Division of Finances and Administration (DBM) has really helpful reducing it to P13.88 billion.

COA’s 2026 request is 28.96% increased than its 2025 price range of P12.57 billion, whereas DBM’s really helpful allocation represents a ten.42% enhance over the identical 2025 price range.

Primarily based on the 2026 Nationwide Expenditure Program, the majority of the P13.88 billion proposed price range — round 94% or P13 billion — will go to private providers (PS), overlaying the salaries and advantages of COA workers.

In the meantime, P715 million is earmarked for upkeep and different working bills (MOOE) — which embody provides, utilities, transportation, and day-to-day operations — and P112 million is allotted for capital outlays (CO).

The fee’s Auditing Program is ready to obtain P6.94 billion. The Accountancy Program can be allotted P3.95 million, whereas its Monetary Adjudication Program will get P232.9 million.

COA’s Central Workplace will get the most important share at P8.17 billion, with P7.5 billion allotted for PS, P532 million for MOOE, and P110 million for CO.

Amongst COA’s regional workplaces — excluding its Central Workplace — Bicol, Calabarzon, and Ilocos will obtain the very best allocations.

In the meantime, the newly established Negros Island Area will get the smallest share at P11.77 million, of which P1.6 million is put aside for capital outlay, funds which may be used for the acquisition, upgrading, upkeep, or restore of buildings.

In 2024, throughout price range deliberations on the Home of Representatives, COA was questioned over delays in importing its audit experiences, elevating considerations about transparency and accountability in authorities spending.

Usually, COA releases its audit report for the earlier yr earlier than deliberations on the next yr’s price range start. As of writing, the 2024 audit report isn’t but obtainable on the COA’s web site.

The Home appropriations committee will take up the proposed COA price range on Tuesday, August 26, at 2 pm. – Rappler.com