QC mayor to probe barangay officials over SAP aid irregularities

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte announced that the city's legal department will issue show-cause orders to barangay officials and employees implicated in anomalies concerning the distribution of Social Amelioration Program (SAP) aid.

Those found guilty of SAP distribution irregularities may face administrative and criminal charges, including violations of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, falsification, fraud against the public treasury, malversation, and robbery.

Complaints received by the Mayor's office include the illegal replication of SAP forms, withholding of forms from qualified beneficiaries, illegal deductions from cash aid, and redistribution of funds.

The Quezon City government has initiated a full-scale investigation into the alleged abuse of power and neglect of duties by certain barangay officials and employees during the SAP cash grant distribution.

Mayor Belmonte emphasized that public office is a public trust and officials must be accountable, responsible, and efficient in serving the people, vowing to enforce the law against any violations.

Reports of anomalous behavior by public officials can be submitted to sap@quezoncity.gov.ph.

Previously, President Duterte ordered the arrest of a Kagawad in Bulacan for deducting funds from SAP aid and offered a reward for reporting irregularities.

DILG Undersecretary Martin Diño warned that barangay officials found guilty of SAP-related irregularities under the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act could face substantial fines, jail time, and perpetual disqualification from holding public office.