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A local council in Sarangani, Philippines, is preparing to file complaints after accusing a district official of spending public funds on online casino gambling.
Officials in Calpidong District, Glan municipality, say PHP600,000 (around US$10,184) meant for community services and local programs disappeared from the district account. When officials reviewed the balance, they found only about PHP14,000 (roughly US$238) remaining.
How the issue came to light
The situation came into focus after district leaders requested funding for local programs sometime last year. Authorities later told them the funds were no longer available.
That response triggered an internal review. Council members checked the district account and found that most of the money had already been withdrawn. The discovery raised immediate concerns, as the funds had been earmarked for public services and development projects.
District captain points to treasurer
District Captain Hipoliti Alicer accused the district treasurer of accessing the account and using the money on online gambling platforms.
According to Alicer, the withdrawals began in August 2025 and continued for several months. He said the transactions took place through online banking channels.
The investigation has faced early complications. In reports, Alicer said verification codes linked to the account were sent to his personal mobile phone, making it harder to determine who authorised each transaction and how access controls were handled.
Alicer denies involvement, vows legal action
Alicer said he did not initially suspect any wrongdoing. He has denied taking part in the withdrawals.
He also said he plans to personally lead the filing of criminal charges. At the same time, the Calpidong District Council is preparing formal complaints against the official involved.
Financial strain on district operations
With only about PHP14,000 left from the original PHP600,000, the district is now under financial pressure.
Council members say the shortfall could disrupt daily operations and basic expenses. Those concerns remain while legal proceedings move forward and recovery of the missing funds remains uncertain.
Source: Politico Mindanao
