COA tells CH to submit transaction docs on time

CEBU - The Commission on Audit has directed “accountable officers” of various Cebu City Hall departments to be more prompt in submitting reports of the city’s transactions to the city auditor.

This after COA observed several delays in the submission of receipts and disbursement records to the city auditor which, in turn, hindered immediate verification of deficiencies of these transactions.

COA has required accountable officers to render monthly reports to the city auditor not later than the fifth day of the succeeding month.

They are also required to turn over receipts and disbursement records with all paid vouchers and documents evidencing the transactions to the auditor within 10 days from date of receipt of said documents.

The head of departments or their supply officers are usually the ones functioning as “accountable officers.”

Likewise, COA said there has also been delay in the submission of contracts of procured items, which hindered a timely review of the technical specifications by the COA Technical Services Office.

Under COA rules, officials responsible or in-charge of accepting deliveries or procured items shall, within 24 hours from such acceptance, notify the auditor of the time and date of the scheduled deliveries.

Some “accountable officers” explained that the delays have been caused by technical problems. — Rene U. Borromeo/JMO   (THE FREEMAN)