COA: PH army’s fuel, representation expenses double in a year

MANILA, Philippines – From 2012 to 2013, the expenses of the Philippine army for fuel and representation to various functions increased by more than 100%, the Commission on Audit said. 

In 2013, the Philippine army spent P696 million for “gasoline, oil and lubricants” – up 101% from P345.16 million in 2012.

Meanwhile, “representation expenses” jumped 106% in 2013 from P219.96 million in 2012. 

The audit report noted that the increase in this kind of expenditure was due to “increased expenses incurred in consultation meetings, conferences and other official entertainment in government.” 

The Philippine army also spent more for “food supplies” in 2013 at P355.82 million – an 86% increase from P191.98 million in 2012.  

Auditors said this is due to the increase in the appropriation of combat expenses, which provide for fuel and food supplies. 

Navy, Air Force

Meanwhile, the Philippine Navy’s representation expenses jumped 60% from P33.22 million in 2012 to P53.16 million in 2013, while its food supplies expense dropped to P3.93 million from P6.91 million. Data for its gas, oil and lubricants expense were incomplete. 

The Philippine Air Force registered the lowest increase in expenses, spending P135.52 million in 2013 for representation (up from P129.69 million in 2012), and P220,000 for food supplies (down from P1.543 million). 

The Air Force’s gasoline, oil and lubricant expenses also dropped from P922.69 million to P896.08 million. – Rappler.com