Meta PixelAnnual Audit Report 2024 — Municipality of Valencia — Page 64

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                                                     Difference
                                              Wt%           Amount
       Project with contract amount of ₱2,929,287.00
       Agency’s Reported Accomplishment      66.191       ₱ 1,938,950.00
       COA Verified Accomplishment           43.251       ₱ 1,266,950.00
       Difference                             22.94       ₱ 672,000.00
       Total Difference                                   ₱ 1,333,500.00

8.11. In view of the foregoing, the accessories and components of the solar lamp posts
      with noted deficiencies were inappropriately included in the final billings and fully
      paid, despite being non-compliant with contract specifications at the time of
      inspection.

8.12. The premature certification of project completion, followed by full payment
      despite the noted deficiencies, resulted in an overpayment amounting to
      ₱1,333,500.00. This undermines the credibility of the completion reports submitted
      by the implementing office and raises concerns about the effectiveness of project
      monitoring and validation procedures prior to payment. It also reflects lapses in
      internal control, particularly in the verification and inspection processes, which
      may expose public funds to the risk of loss or misuse.

8.13. We recommended that the Municipal Mayor and the Municipal Engineer
      inform the contractor of the deficiencies noted and require them to either
      undertake the necessary corrective works or to refund the amount
      corresponding to the uncompleted and non-compliant items, totaling
      ₱1,333,500.00.

8.14. We further recommended and Management agreed to strengthen its
      monitoring and validation procedures by ensuring that all work items are
      physically verified and accounted for prior to certifying project completion
      and processing of final payment.

8.15. The Municipal Engineer acknowledged that some accessories were not installed
      due to unforeseen field conditions. He mentioned that, based on his initial
      investigation, the contractor and the previous Municipal Engineer held detailed
      discussions to assess the situation and determine the best course of action, which
      included an alternative installation method and potential cost implications. He also
      requested ample time to investigate the matter and develop the most effective and
      cost-efficient solution. He added that he had already contacted the contractor to
      discuss their plan of action.

8.16. The Auditor would like to remind Management to implement projects in
      accordance with the approved plans and specifications. Any deviations must be
      recommended by the Municipal Engineer and approved by the Municipal Mayor.
      Upon project completion, the contractor must submit as-built plans reflecting all
      deviations from the original plans.

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