Barangay Treasurer Accused of Using Public Funds for Scatter Games
SCATTER – A barangay in Sarangani Province is under fire after nearly ₱600,000 in public funds were allegedly spent on online scatter gambling.
An alleged misuse of public funds has rocked Barangay Calpidong in the municipality of Glan, Sarangani Province, after close to ₱600,000 in barangay funds was reportedly lost to online gambling.
According to Barangay Captain Hipoliti Alicer, the missing amount involved barangay funds that were allegedly used by the barangay treasurer for online gambling activities, commonly known as “scatter.” Alicer said the suspected withdrawals began as early as August 2025 and continued over time without immediately raising red flags.
Photo Source: MSN
The barangay captain explained that the funds were withdrawn through an online banking application. What made the situation more complicated, he said, was that the bank’s verification codes were being sent directly to his mobile phone. This setup was allegedly exploited by the treasurer, allowing unauthorized access to the barangay’s account.
The discovery prompted immediate concern within the barangay council, as the missing funds were intended for essential services and community programs. Alicer stressed that he has no involvement in the disappearance of the money and vowed to personally lead the filing of criminal charges against the barangay treasurer to ensure accountability and clear his name.
Photo Source: Manila Bulletin
At present, the Barangay Calpidong Council is preparing the necessary legal complaints to be filed against the involved official. The incident has also raised questions about internal controls and safeguards in handling public funds at the barangay level.
Meanwhile, the financial impact on the barangay has been severe. From an estimated ₱600,000, only about ₱14,000 remains in the barangay’s coffers, an amount now being stretched to cover daily operational expenses. Local officials hope that legal action will help recover the lost funds and restore public trust in the barangay’s leadership.
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