Policy forum in Region 8

TACLOBAN CITY ,Philippines  — The Tapatan regional forum on PNoy's Full Disclosure Policy (FDP), originally set on May 5 has been moved by to June 8, with the venue to be announced later.

This was announced by Myles Colasito, information officer of the DILG-Region 8, although he did not explain the reason of the postponement.

The forum, scheduled by DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo, was supposed to be conducted nationwide for all governors, city and municipal mayors, media and civil society organizations.

Colasito said the Tapatan forum would be held in conjunction with the quarterly Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) meeting.

It will orient participants about the FDP and thresh out issues and concerns on its implementation with Robredo himself in attendance. At the end of the forum, the governors and mayors will be encouraged to sign a pledge of commitment to implement the policy.  

The FDC aims to promote transparency and accountability. All LGU's are required to post their budgets and finances, bids and public offerings in government websites, newspapers of general circulation, and in conspicuous places within their areas.

Among these are the annual budgets, quarterly statement of cash flows, statement of receipts and expenditures of the previous year, Trust Fund (PDAF) Utilization, Special Education Fund Utilization, 20% Component of the IRA Utilization, Gender and Development Fund Utilization, Statement of Debt Services, Annual Procurement Plan or Procurement list, Items to Bid, Bid Results on Civil Works, and Goods and Services and Abstract of Bids as Calculated.

Compliance to FDP is one of the indicators of DILG's Seal of Good Housekeeping Survey, which is a requirement in availing of the P1-million Performance Challenge Fund (PCF) grant from the department.

Failure to comply with the FDP may also subject LGU officials to either suspension or removal from office due to gross negligence or dereliction of duty in accordance with Section 60 of the Local Government Code of 1991.