Reports about the 2019 Department of National Defense (DND) annual audit report that contained adverse observations came out on Sunday.

State audit examiners chided the DND for spending P553,807.62 for the installation of hot and cold shower and air-conditioning units in common comfort areas for Male and Female and PWD that were constructed last year.

The audit agency also stressed that the expenditure violated Presidential Decree 1445 that provides policies for the “prevention of irregular, unnecessary, excessive or extravagant expenditures of funds or uses of property.”

 “In addition, several provisions of RA 9184 were not complied in the implementation of contracts,” said the audit report.

As the news media published reports of adverse audit findings in the disbursement of public funds by the Department of National Defense, security personnel clamped down on the entry of members of media at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.

On Sunday, this reporter was initially denied entry to the camp when the security personnel manning the Boni Serrano gate noted that his car had a Manila Bulletin card notice displayed on its front windshield.

This reporter, who was off duty that day, explained that he and his companion merely intended to attend the wake of a deceased friend whose remains was at the Camp Aguinaldo mortuary.

“Sir, taga-media po kayo, hindi po kayo pwede dito.  Wala naman notice sa amin na pwede kayo papasukin, (Sir you are from media, you are not allowed here. We were not given any notice that you can be allowed entry),“  one of the three gate sentries said.

“Atsaka, kelangan din namin ng medical certificate para kayo makapasok, (Further, you have to show a medical certificate to gain entry)” he added.

This reporter then showed a rapid test result showing negative finding for COVID 19, but still the guard insisted that the “press” card notice be taken down before he can allow entry.

During the audit year, DND implemented the DND Building Common Comfort Rooms project that cost government P6.38 million.  Included in the contract were the repair, renovation and remodelling of the DND common toilets.

“We noted that in addition to the basic items inside the facilities, shower with heater was installed in the PWD Rooms, while air conditioning unit and shower with heater were installed in the Male and Female Rooms totaling P553,807.62,” said COA.

The audit body demanded a justification for the said expenditures which it described as “unnecessary” and can be avoided without sacrificing the attainment” of the agency’s objectives.

Responding to the audit observation, the DND explained that since the office is “like a second home” to the personnel, it should be comfortable.  This will encourage productivity and inspire creativity among workers.

The defense department also stressed that air conditioning improves the “indoor quality and provides a mold-free environment.”