Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto has directed newly appointed local government treasurers to serve as the country’s “first line of defense” in upholding fiscal governance at the local level.
Speaking during the ceremonial oath-taking of 195 local and assistant local treasurers from Regions VI to XIII and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) on September 8, Recto urged them to ensure the faithful execution of local budgets and protect taxpayers’ money.
“We are counting on you not only to manage resources well, but to ensure the faithful execution of our local budgets,” Recto said, highlighting the critical role of treasurers as financial advisers and guardians of local government finances.
The event was facilitated by Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF) supervising assistant secretary Danielle Marie S. Rieza-Culangen and Department of Finance (DOF) undersecretary Bayani H. Agabin.
Recto reminded the new appointees that their work is vital amid growing demands for transparency and good governance, echoing President Marcos’ call for reform: “Walang Bagong Pilipinas kung walang tunay na pagbabago.”
He called on local treasurers to lead with integrity and accountability, emphasizing the value of every peso collected: “Ang buwis ay katumbas ng pawis ng isang magsasaka at pangarap ng isang pamilya.”
The Finance Secretary also assured them of DOF’s full support as they carry out their mandate under the Local Government Code of 1991.
