Genuine NGOs hit by impact of PDAF scam

DAVAO CITY- Genuine civil service organizations (CSO) are feeling the impact of the PDAF (Priority  Development Assistance Fund) scam.
This according to Paul Paraguya, project manager of CODE-NGO (Caucus of Development Non-Government Organization ) network.

He said before the PDAF scam broke out, it was much easier for legitimate NGOs to negotiate above the table with government agencies for the implementation of development projects in the communities.

The PDAF scam involved spurious NGOs being recipient of PDAF from senators a scheme allegedly masterminded by Janet Lim- Napoles, these funds were misused contrary to intended purposes.

“Lisod kaayo.” (It is very difficult) Paraguya now describes the current situation with government agencies now very prudent in dealing with civil service organizations.

Paraguya said though the difficulty they are still supportive of government efforts in cleansing spurious NGOs. He said CODE-NGO is very supportive of the Tuwid na Daan efforts of the Aquino administration.

He said they too in the group would not tolerate shenanigans in their midst as they can account for their projects and the beneficiaries.

Paraguya is in Davao City for the Civil Society  Week Celebration in Davao City which will be the largest gathering of CSOs in the city.

The 3-day celebration will be held at the SMX Davao in SM Lanang Premiere, the event will have the theme Peace and Resiliency and will highlight peace and development efforts in the Bangsamoro and Climate Change preparedness and rehabilitation. (PIA/RG Alama)