The Boholanons Against Corruption Movement (BACM), a civil society group that advocates for good governance and transparency, has issued a public statement calling the attention of the Philippine House of Representatives to help include in the investigation of Congress, the utilization of the intelligence funds of the Provincial Government of Bohol for their unauthorized use, if proven true.
According to a statement, BACM has received reliable information that Governor Aris Aumentado has allegedly illegally created the Office of Government Accountability and Review (OGAR) in 2022 and used the intelligence funds to pay for the salaries of its members.
The statement also named four individuals who are allegedly part of the OGAR and receiving salaries from the intel funds. They are:
- Former Cabinet Secretary Leoncio Evasco Jr.;
- Former Tagbilaran City Mayor Dan N. Lim;
- Manila Businessman Emmanuel “Willy” Ramasola; and
- Brother in Law Andy Ramo.
BACM said these individuals have no official functions or positions in the provincial government and are not authorized to receive any compensation from the public coffers.
BACM also questioned the legality and propriety of creating an office that is not mandated by law and not approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Provincial Board).
Concerned Boholanos have urged the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, chaired by Rep. Jose Christopher Belmonte, to look into this matter and hold Governor Aumentado accountable for his actions.
The group said the misuse of intelligence funds is a serious offense that violates the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, and the Constitution.
BACM also appealed to the public to support their cause and join them in their fight against corruption in Bohol.
BACM said that they are not affiliated with any political party or group and are only motivated by their love for their province and their desire for good governance, adding that they will continue to monitor and expose any irregularities and anomalies in the provincial government.