PA ready to face probe on COA findings of undelivered ammunition, uniforms

From the Philippine News Agency (Sep 1): PA ready to face probe on COA findings of undelivered ammunition, uniforms

The Philippine Army (PA) said on Tuesday it welcomes any investigation that will be made regarding the Commission on Audit (COA) findings on undelivered ammunition and combat clothing and individual equipment (CCIE).

"Lt. Gen. Eduardo M. Año, the Commanding General of the Philippine Army, has directed the Army offices concerned to open their books and fully cooperate with the Senate inquiry," PA spokesperson Col. Benjamin Hao said.

He added that the Army follows the procedures in the procurement of supplies and equipment based on Republic Act No. 9184 (Government Procurement Reform Act).

"Based on latest records, the less than 1 percent remaining undelivered CCIEs is set to be delivered soon to the 9th Infantry Division," Hao said.

The PA is required by government procedures to procure small arms ammunition from the Government Arsenal.

"After complying with the procurement process, the Philippine Army is now awaiting the delivery of the ammunition," the PA spokesperson said.

In the interest of transparency, the Army is willing to cooperate with other government agencies in the conduct of an investigation.

"The PA appreciates the care and concern of Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago with our troops. The Army is doing its best to provide the best for its troops based on the Army Transformation Roadmap," Hao said.

Santiago cited a recently released COA report which showed that despite the PhP569.6-million the Army released to the Government Arsenal for ammunition, only PhP42.4 million worth of bullets were delivered in 2014.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=799141