Published: 14 October 2024
The 17th Visayas Geographical Conference of the Philippine Association of Local Government Accountants (PhALGA) held in Bacolod City last 2 to 4 October 2024 was attended by approximately 8,000 participants. This momentous event took place at the SMX Convention Center and gathered financial officers from Local Government Units (LGUs), as well as Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials.
In his PICPA Talks column for the Manila Bulletin newspaper published last 29 September 2024, Commission on Audit (COA) Commissioner Roland Café Pondoc said that a key objective of this conference was to equip local government accountants and financial officers with the necessary tools to manage public funds effectively. PhALGA, an organization dedicated for empowering these public accountants, has been pivotal in addressing the complex financial demands of local governance. As local governance continues to evolve, particularly with the country’s ongoing push for decentralization and devolution, the conference focused on strengthening the financial capabilities of these public servants.
Several key areas were covered, including implementing devolution, disaster preparedness, and proper utilization of public funds. Notably, the conference included in-depth discussions on the Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund, ensuring that local leaders are prepared to handle both natural and man-made disasters. It also tackled financial accountability and the challenges arising from the Mandanas ruling, which has restructured the financial responsibilities of LGUs. Additionally, topics like the Seal of Good Local Governance and budgeting processes under devolution were explored, providing valuable insights for attendees.
The event featured an impressive lineup of guest speakers, featuring key government figures such as Atty. Persida V. Rueda-Acosta, Chief of the Public Attorney’s Office, COA Commissioner Roland Café Pondoc, Directors and Chiefs from the COA, along with experts from the Department of Budget and Management, the Office of Civil Defense, and the Department of Tourism. Their discussions covered a wide range of important governance topics, from managing SK finances to leadership through values for CPAs, ensuring that participants left with practical knowledge to apply in their communities.
Beyond technical presentations, the conference also inspired attendees through sessions on personal and professional growth. A session titled “Growing and Glowing” focused on the importance of career development and fostering a positive mindset. With its comprehensive agenda and commitment to enhancing local governance, the PhALGA event fulfilled its promise to be a milestone gathering for local government officials seeking to improve their leadership and financial management skills. #
To read the article of Commissioner Roland Café Pondoc, please visit:
https://mb.com.ph/2024/9/28/partnering-to-strengthen-local-governance