TARLAC CITY – Mayor Maria Cristina C. Angeles has been flagged by the Commission on Audit for irregularities in the procurement of over ₱50 million worth of medicines and medical supplies, citing gross violations of procurement laws and regulations.
COA’s Fraud Audit Report No. 2025-003 said the city government purchased ₱843,900 worth of medicines not listed in the Philippine National Formulary (PNF), violating Executive Order No. 49, s.1993 and DOH Administrative Order 2012-0023, which mandate exclusive use of PNF-listed drugs in all government purchases.
COA also found that ₱50.8 million in contracts for medical, dental, and laboratory supplies were “paid in full despite glaring documentation deficiencies.” It said that one supplier, Theya Enterprises, had no valid business permit or Food and Drug Administration (FDA) license.
Further, ₱33.85 million in check payments were issued before the preparation of their corresponding disbursement vouchers, a move auditors described as a “badge of irregularity.”
From the same audit cycle, COA also flagged the procurement of school kits worth ₱91.8 million as irregular. Cited as particularly concerning was that check payments for the kits were received not by the supplier or its authorized representative, but by a city government employee.
COA has recommended accountability measures against officials involved, including Mayor Angeles, for approving and implementing the transactions despite clear violations.
Right of Reply
Punto! has not found a way to contact Mayor Angeles for her side as of posting time. We are open to publish her reply anytime she would give it. The Editor
