DBM Region 8 chief positive of Diokno’s return

TACLOBAN CITY, June 15 (PNA) –- An official of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) is optimistic of sustainable public financial management reforms in the next administration with the appointment of Bejamin Diokno to lead the department again.

DBM Regional Director Imelda Laceras said it will be easier for DBM officials to convince the incoming Secretary to sustain reforms.

“Knowing his advocacy in DBM, being our former Undersecretary and Secretary and Economist working with academe, we are hopeful that he will continue whatever existing policies along public financial management reforms,” Laceras said.

The public financial management reform program aims to improve efficiency, accountability and transparency in public fund use in order to ensure the direct, immediate, substantial and economical delivery of public services especially to the poor.

Diokno, an economics professor at the University of the Philippines, was the budget secretary during the term of President Joseph Estrada from 1998 to 2001.

He also served as DBM Undersecretary for Budget Operations from 1986 to 1991, during the administration of President Corazon Aquino.

During his stint, Diokno initiated and instituted several reforms that would enhance transparency and improve the efficiency of the delivery of government services. (PNA)

JMC/SARWELL Q. MENIANO