The Commission on Audit (COA) reported that there is P14.4 million that has not yet been recovered by the Office of the President (OP) from various government agencies. This is the cost of foreign travel advanced by the Palace since 2022.
According to the 2024 audit report, the OP booked airfare and hotel for officials who accompanied President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on trips abroad. But their agencies did not immediately pay or reimburse them.
Marcos made up to 11 trips abroad in 2024, including meetings in the United States and Japan. P14,403,827.6 receivables were inflated because they “remained uncollected” as of Dec. 31, 2024. Some of the agencies that owe money are the BIR, DA, DOF, and DFA.
The COA called on the Palace to implement a clearer system in billing and monitoring. Some of the recommendations are having a billing policy, formal agreements before going on trips, and better monitoring of unpaid receivables.
Malacañang said that demand letters were sent in April 2025. According to Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, 55% or P7.88 million has been collected, and a deadline has been set for the remaining balance.
