MANY residents of Mindanao are now asking questions about how education funds were handled in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.
One issue involves the reported purchase of classroom armchairs worth P5,070 each by the MBHTE (Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education).
For Mindanaoans, the price looks too high compared to ordinary market prices. Because of this, some sectors are calling for a careful review of the purchase and procurement process.
Another concern is the reported P5 billion in unused funds that allegedly stayed untouched for several years.
Under government rules, public funds should either be properly used for projects or returned to the National Treasury when not needed.
Many believe that such a huge amount could have already helped build classrooms, buy school supplies and improve services for students and teachers.
Amid these issues, Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua removed Mohagher Iqbal from his post as BARMM Education Minister.
The move is widely seen as part of efforts to strengthen accountability and restore public confidence.
But the issue is bigger than one person. The real challenge is making sure government systems are working properly.
Public money, especially funds intended for education, must always be handled carefully, honestly, and transparently.
Mindanaoans simply want assurance that every peso meant for students truly benefits the youth and the future of BARMM.
Leadership changes alone are not enough. Stronger monitoring, proper auditing and transparent spending are needed to prevent the same issues from happening again.
