Section 17Republic Act No. 3060, as amended, is hereby abolished, and its powers and functions are hereby transferred to the BOARD. Such transfer shall include the corresponding balances of appropriations, reco, Sec./Art. 17

Applicability of Civil Service Law. - The BOARD and its officers and employees shall be subject to the Civil Service Law, rules and regulations; Provided, That technical personnel shall be selected on the basis of merit and fitness to be determined in accordance with such policies and guidelines as may be approved by the BOARD. SECTION 18. Commission on Audit. - The Chairman of the Commission on Audit shall be the ex officio Auditor of the BOARD. For this purpose, he may appoint a representative who shall be the auditor of the BOARD, together with the necessary personnel to assist said representative in the performance of his duties.

The number and salaries of the auditor and said personnel shall be determined by the Chairman of the Commission on Audit. Said salaries and all other expenses of maintaining the auditor's office shall be paid by the BOARD.

The Auditor shall, as soon as practicable, but not later than three (3) months after the accounts have been submitted to audit, send an annual report to the BOARD. The Auditor shall also submit such periodic or special reports as the BOARD may deem necessary or proper.