The Department of National Defense (DND) has refuted media reports that the Commission on Audit ordered the suspension of its P25 billion aircraft deal.
In a statement sent to the media Friday, DND spokesperson Peter Galvez said the COA did not suspend their acquisition of 12 fighter jets from South Korea, eight Bell 412EP combat utility helicopters from Canada, and 21 UH-1 helicopters.
The aircraft from South Korea is said to be worth P18.9 billion while the combat utility helicopters are valued at P4.8 billion.
The controversial deal is now being looked into by the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee.
“The COA has merely suspended their scheduled audit pending the submission of additional requirements and data from the Department of National Defense (DND). Thus, the acquisition of the Bell 412 helicopters and the FA-50 jets are ongoing,” Galvez said.
Citing a letter of COA supervising auditor Lucena Gana to the DND, the COA said “the existence of the Notice of Suspension does not prevent or hinder management in the performance of its responsibilities under the contract.”
“We assure the Filipino public that all transactions in the Department are aboveboard, transparent, and in compliance with the rules and regulations as prescribed by law,” Galvez added. AU