MANILA, Philippines — Forty-six barangay (village) officials in Manila were ordered by the city government to explain the alleged anomalies in the distribution of relief items and financial assistance to families affected by the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) that was enforced to contain the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
“The Manila City government has issued show cause orders against barangay officials over alleged irregularities in the distribution of relief assistance and allowances amid the COVID-19 crisis,” read a statement from the Manila Public Information Office.
Manila Barangay Bureau Director Romeo Bagay said that with the issuance of the show cause orders, the 46 local officials could face criminal complaints for violating the Bayanihan to Heal As One Act, Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, and Manila City ordinances, if they will fail to answer the allegations within 72 hours.
The Manila City government said that it had received complaints that some barangay officials allegedly required residents to sign acknowledgment receipts for P1,000 cash aid under the Manila City Amelioration Crisis Assistance Fund but did not release any cash aid to the beneficiaries.
The government added that some senior citizens also complained that they did not also receive the milk food supplement assistance from the city government.
Some barangay officials were also accused of unfair distribution of relief goods, abuse in the issuance of quarantine passes, and pilferage of the contents of food packs.
Manila Mayor Isko Moreno had previously warned that village officials involved in irregularities of government aid will face penalties and criminal charges.