NINE local government units (LGUs) in Davao Oriental have been recognized for their outstanding financial management, passing the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) 2024 Good Financial Housekeeping (GFH) assessment.
The awardees include the City of Mati and the municipalities of Baganga, Banaybanay, Caraga, Cateel, Governor Generoso, Lupon, San Isidro, and Tarragona.
According to DILG, the GFH distinction is more than just an award—it reflects a commitment to good governance through transparency, fiscal responsibility, and accountability.
Passing the assessment means these LGUs have demonstrated effective management of public funds and adherence to the agency’s Full Disclosure Policy, ensuring financial information remains accessible to the public.
Mati City Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the importance of upholding high financial governance standards. She reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to responsible budget management and efficient service delivery.
“The recognition is not just a reflection of our efforts, but a reminder to continue pushing for policies that ensure every budgetary decision supports the greater good of our citizens,” Rabat said.
The GFH award underscores the role of strong governance structures in local government, setting an example for other municipalities.
DILG emphasized that responsible financial management goes beyond numbers—it fosters public trust, supports sustainable development, and ensures public resources are used for community welfare.
This recognition comes as Davao Oriental’s economy continues to recover and grow, with 2023 seeing significant progress in key sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and infrastructure development. DEF