DEPARTMENT of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah “Mina” F. Pangandaman visited the Panay and Negros islands on Monday, June 30, to administer the oath of office to newly elected local officials in both Negros Occidental and Iloilo. This underscores the administration’s strong commitment to local development, transparency, and inclusive governance under the leadership of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr.
“What we can promise is that the national government, under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., stands ready to support every LGU (local government unit) to foster local development by providing needed financial resources, technical assistance, and policy guidance that ensures the effectiveness of local development initiatives,” Sec. Pangandaman affirmed during her address in Negros Occidental.
Her back-to-back engagements began in Moises Padilla town, where she was hosted by Cong. Emilio Bernardino “Dino” Yulo of the 5th District. Speaking at the municipal auditorium, the Budget secretary urged public officials to embrace their responsibilities with purpose, discipline, and compassion.
“People voted for action and change, not politics as usual. As public servants, we are bearers of the people’s hopes. While we may hold positions of authority, our role is to fulfill our duties and responsibilities with discipline, integrity, and efficiency — not to elevate ourselves above them,” she explained.
From Negros Occidental, Sec. Pangandaman proceeded to Iloilo City, where she was welcomed by Gov. Arthur “Toto” Defensor Jr. at the Grand Xing Imperial Hotel for the oath-taking of provincial and municipal officials, including members of the House of Representatives.
“Here in Iloilo, where governance is grounded in community and carried out with heart, I see a province already aligned with our national vision. Let us build on that. Let us continue to move forward — as one government, one people, one purpose,” the DBM secretary said.
“Iloilo is already strong, but the work continues. The President is with you. I am with you. The entire DBM team is here to walk beside you — to make sure your budgets are released on time, your priorities are supported, and your vision is funded,” she ended.
Sec. Pangandaman’s presence in both provinces on the same day exemplifies her unwavering commitment to good governance and her belief that transformation happens when national vision meets local action./PN
