BM Arcamo Expects Probe into AICS Anomaly to Begin Soon
A senior board member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) expressed confidence that the legislative body will soon launch an investigation into the alleged anomaly involving the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program allegedly pocketed by staff of Gov. Aris Aumentado.
Benjie Arcamo, a senior board member, made the statement in a recent interview, saying that the person who exposed the allegations in the SP would likely seek an update on the investigation.
The controversy surrounding the AICS program was first raised by Board Member Vierna Mae Boniel-Maglasang in a privilege speech. The SP was set to investigate the matter, but the executive department requested a 30-day period to conduct an internal investigation.
That 30-day period has lapsed, Arcamo noted, and the SP should now take the lead in investigating the allegations. Arcamo emphasized that the executive department’s investigation is not binding on the SP.
In a related development, two executive assistants, Nelson Pon and Caroline Maniwang, were reportedly terminated from their posts by Gov. Erico Aristotle Aumentado. However, Arcamo claimed that he has not seen the termination letters.
Despite the reported terminations, Arcamo said the SP can still summon Pon and Maniwang to shed light on the allegations. He stressed that the SP should investigate the matter, as it involves public funds and is a serious issue.
The controversy stems from complaints that AICS beneficiaries received only P3,000 in benefits, despite being allocated P10,000, with P7,000 allegedly being pocketed by the Office of the Governor.
