As financial assistance programs from the government continue to benefit residents in the province, Governor Joet Garcia reminded the public that asking for kickbacks or any form of commission/monetary share from beneficiaries is strictly prohibited under Provincial Ordinance No. 12, Series of 2025, also known as the Kontra-Kickback sa Ayuda Ordinance of Bataan.

Authored by Congressman and former Board Member Tony Roman and Board Member Jomar Gaza, and sponsored by Board Members Gaza and Iya Roque, the Ordinance was passed by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan under the leadership of Vice Governor Cris Garcia.

Said Ordinance aims to safeguard the integrity of government-funded financial assistance programs such as TUPAD, AICS, AKAP by penalizing anyone, whether public official, agent, or private individual, who demands or accepts kickbacks, commissions, or bribes in exchange for inclusion, facilitation, or release of cash.

Penalties range from fines and community service to imprisonment and administrative sanctions, depending on the severity and frequency of the offense. Beneficiaries found guilty will be disqualified from receiving further financial assistance. The Ordinance likewise includes whistleblower protection to encourage reports of abuse.

Governor Garcia expressed the provincial government’s commitment to ensuring that financial assistance reaches the right beneficiaries and serves its intended purpose of addressing their needs.

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