18/02/2024
NEWS | Nueva Vizcaya Governor Stresses Integrity in Handling Public Funds to Barangay Officials
In a notable effort to bolster transparency and accountability in local governance, Governor Atty. Jose "Jing" V. Gambito addressed over 500 barangay captains and treasurers in Nueva Vizcaya, emphasizing the critical importance of integrity in managing public funds. The message was delivered during the “Accountable Tayo! Skill Training on Basic Local Treasury Operations,” a two-day event held at the Nueva Vizcaya Convention Center on February 15-16.
Governor Gambito, in his heartfelt address, urged the local officials not to succumb to the temptations of misusing public funds. “Huwag na huwag ninyo pag interesan ang pera ng mga tao, hindi nyo ito ikakayaman bagkus ikakasira nyo ito,” he stated, highlighting the destruction that comes from betraying public trust. He underscored the responsibility of the barangay officials to safeguard the people’s money and maintain the trust and confidence vested in them by their constituents.
The training was organized by the provincial government through the Provincial Treasury Office, led by Provincial Treasurer Rhoda S. Moreno. The initiative aims to equip the newly elected barangay captains and treasurers, along with all accountable officers, with essential knowledge on local treasury operations and the essence of accountability.
With more than 500 participants, the event featured resource speakers from the Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF), Commission on Audit, Provincial Treasury, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). Topics covered during the training included Barangay Taxing Powers, Real Property Tax, Barangay Fund Management, Fidelity Bond, Cash Booking Rules, and Guidelines.
Provincial Treasurer Moreno highlighted the training’s objectives, which are to raise awareness for a more transparent, functional, and reliable service through comprehensively bridging the knowledge gap on local treasury operations, fidelity bond, and all other necessary guidelines regarding the collection and disbursement of government funds. Additionally, the event served as a venue to unify the barangay treasurers of the province towards common goals and objectives as fiscal managers.
Elevating the significance of the event, Vice Governor Eufemia A. Dacayo and Board Member Patricio F. Dumlao were in attendance, further emphasizing the training’s importance and the provincial government’s unwavering commitment to promoting good governance. Their presence, alongside BM John F. Babliing, President of the Liga ng mga Barangay, who also participated, underscored the collective resolve of Nueva Vizcaya’s leadership to uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability in public service.
The “Accountable Tayo!” training is part of the provincial government’s ongoing efforts to enhance the capabilities of local officials in Nueva Vizcaya, ensuring they serve their constituents with the highest standards of integrity and accountability.