MANILA, Philippines — For the first time in history, the Manila government on Tuesday said it finally passed the good financial housekeeping (GFH) standards or recognition of financial transparency from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).
In a statement, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno said the recognition proves the local government was “able to spend its funds wisely” in 2019.
“Last time, I already said that I will not tolerate a dismal performance from the City Government under my watch. We will always aim to do better for the Manileños,” Moreno said.
The mayor also noted that the city government will use its funds to provide for the residents in the capital city which includes health care and nutrition services.
“Of course, we won’t stop here. We’ll continue to ensure that our local government funds will be used to provide more services to our constituents. Dapat lang na mapunta ito sa pagpapaunlad ng healthcare facilities, pagpapataas ng kalidad ng nutrisyon ng mga Batang Maynila at sa pagtatatag ng iba pang mga pasilidad para sa pakinabang ng lahat,” he said.
(We should use these funds to improve health care facilities, increase quality of nutrition to Manileños and put up other facilities for all.)
The GFH award, launched in 2010, is one of the requirements a local government unit (LGU) must receive to secure the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) which aims at improving LGUs commitment to competitiveness, environmental management, and peace and order, among others.