MANILA — Education Minister Mohagher Iqbal has been dismissed by BARMM Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua after a Commission on Audit (COA) report uncovered extensive procurement violations involving P2.2 billion in education-related contracts.
In a formal directive issued May 11, 2026, Macacua ordered Iqbal to submit his irrevocable resignation immediately or be automatically considered resigned by May 18.
The COA findings revealed that the Ministry of Basic, Higher, and Technical Education failed to impose liquidated damages amounting to P1.06 million despite delays exceeding 500 days in the delivery of school armchairs worth P30.9 million. The audit cited violations of Republic Act 9184 and related procurement regulations.
The report also flagged 53 contracts totaling P1.95 billion that were awarded despite multiple procurement lapses, including improper identification of joint venture bidders, delayed posting of performance securities, and inconsistencies in sworn declarations.
In several cases, the lack of timely performance securities meant the government had no guarantee of supplier compliance. One highlighted case involved CNX Mini Mart’s P4.7-million Education Summit contract, which lacked required safeguards.
Additionally, COA found that 73 disbursement vouchers worth P2.24 million were processed and paid without complete supporting documents, relying solely on internal certifications.
Macacua warned that COA has already issued initial notices of disallowance and more may follow. He said the irregularities compromise governance reforms and significantly damage public trust in the region’s education ministry.
