The Commission on Audit (COA) said that luxury hotel Discovery Shores Boracay should charge the former officials of the Department of Tourism (DOT) due to the excessive expenses totaling P456,000, which is higher than what the government allows.

The COA Proper denied Discovery World Corp.’s petition in May 2022 for a money claim of P456,716.50 for accommodations, meals, and other services for being devoid of merit.

According to the COA, former tourism secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo, former Undersecretary Katherine De Castro, assistant secretary Frederick Alegre, Angelito Ucol, and Julius Disamburun stayed at the five-star hotel between February and April 2018 for a meeting on Boracay rehabilitation efforts.

It was noted that the rate at Discovery Shores costs P13,000 per room per night, exceeding the P400 per day hotel and lodging fees allowed for each of the officials.

The COA said that the mentioned officials incurred expenses for meals, beverages, and other services, which totaled P313,716.50, while the total accommodation for the five officials and employees amounted to P143,000.