The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has a little extra reason to celebrate this holiday season. Under the leadership of Secretary Amenah “Mina” F. Pangandaman, the agency brought home a remarkable accolade, the “Champion of Information Integrity Award” at the inaugural Parangal: Gawad ng Kahusayan sa Komunikasyong Pampubliko.
The recognition highlights DBM’s winning entry, the People’s Budget Series, an initiative known for its innovative approach to promoting transparency and combating misinformation.
The award comes at a crucial time, when fostering trust and empowering citizens through accurate and accessible information is more important than ever. The People’s Budget Series breaks down the complexities of government budgeting into easy-to-understand formats, ensuring that Filipinos are not only informed but also inspired to actively engage in governance. Comprising the People’s Proposed Budget, People’s Enacted Budget, and People’s Implemented Budget, the series exemplifies DBM’s commitment to openness and accountability.
This win is a testament to the strong leadership and vision of Secretary Mina. Known for her passion for transparency and public engagement, the Budget Secretary has been at the forefront of transformative reforms, including the push for digitalization through platforms like the PhilGeps eMarketplace and the Budget Treasury and Management System.
A special congratulations to Undersecretary Margaux Salcedo and Assistant Secretary Diana Camacho-Mercado and the entire ACES group for their dedication and exceptional efforts. They are the main proponents to this well-earned feat.
Meanwhile, I was deeply honored that evening to be nominated for the “Outstanding Public Communicator Award.” The acknowledgment serves as a profound reminder of the importance of meaningful and impactful communication in public service. Simply being considered for this distinction motivates me to continually pursue excellence in engaging with and empowering the public.
Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, spokesperson for the Department of Social Welfare and Development, emerged victorious in the category — an accolade I believe she truly deserved. Her unwavering dedication to clear, empathetic, and impactful communication is nothing short of inspiring, and I warmly congratulate her for the much-deserved title.
These efforts not only modernize public financial management but also uphold the principles of the Open Government Partnership (OGP), further cementing the Philippines’ standing as a global leader in budget transparency.
The DBM’s success is echoed in the 2023 Open Budget Survey, where the Philippines ranked first in Asia and 15th worldwide, earning top marks for budget transparency and oversight. With a transparency score of 75 out of 100 and recognition for public participation, the DBM’s initiatives have propelled the country into the international spotlight.
While the award is a moment of pride, the DBM isn’t stopping here. The agency has its sights set on bigger goals, particularly the 2025 OGP Asia and the Pacific Regional Meeting, which the Philippines will host in February. This momentous gathering promises to unite reformers, policymakers, and civil society leaders to discuss the future of open governance.
Adding a touch of excitement to the preparations is the OGP Fun Run, a lively event designed to promote transparency and accountability in a more inclusive and engaging way.
Highlighting the importance of the run, Secretary Mina said, “Governance is more than policies and procedures… It’s about building connections. Events like the Fun Run demonstrate that transparency and accountability aren’t just principles — they’re shared experiences that bring people together and inspire action.”
To end, just as Christmas brings families and communities together, open governance fosters unity and trust between the government and its people. Through transparency initiatives like the People’s Budget Series and the upcoming OGP Asia and the Pacific Regional Meeting, the DBM is creating opportunities for meaningful connections and shared progress — a gift that benefits every Filipino.
This season, the spirit of giving takes on a new meaning for the DBM. Beyond material gifts, it offers the gift of empowerment through accessible information, the gift of trust through accountability, and the gift of hope for a better, more inclusive government. These efforts reflect the true essence of the Christmas — giving selflessly to uplift others and working together to build a brighter future.
Wishing everyone a joyful and meaningful holiday season ahead! Merry Christmas from all of us at the DBM. Let’s keep spreading positivity.
There is Hope!