Secrecy, Security, and Spending: The Complex World of Confidential Funds
The Philippines' secret fund implies the discretionary fund that goes to certain government agencies or officials for functions relating to national defense or to intelligence or covert operations . Typically these expenditures include counter-terrorism or anti-crime operations for the very most sensitive interest of the state. Politicians and agencies oftentimes justify the mention of confidentiality in these funds through national security and secrecy of operations. Reasons for Not Making Public Expenditure 1. Operational Security: Opening up to the general public how the fund was spent would unwittingly divulge pegged intelligence and security operations critical for their success. 2. Protection of Personnel: It may jeopardize the lives of agents, informants, or operatives. 3. National Security: Publicizing fund usages may also expose an operation to tactics and weaknesses of enemies. Challenging Aspects of Auditing the Confidential Funds Auditing of such funds is complex...