The Guam Visitors Bureau’s (GVB) Tourism Assistance program is being scrutinized by the Office of Public Accountability (OPA).

The public auditor today releasing its performance audit of the GVB program stood up to immediately aid small tourism-related businesses recovering from the aftermath of Typhoon Mawar and the COVID-19 pandemic.

The report stated GVB budgeted $2-million for the tap, which aimed at providing up to $25,000 in financial assistance to qualified companies.

The audit revealed disparities in the evaluation process, noting one company received tap awards for both revenue and after-effects of the typhoon, while others who submitted claims did not.

The audit also identified weaknesses in the review process and program criteria.

In response, GVB President and CEO Carl Gutierrez stated the bureau is in agreement with the OPA on their findings and appreciates their guidance in making this a better program.