AngelesCity– The Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF), in collaboration with the Philippine Tax Academy (PTA)under the Department of Finance (DOF), successfully conducted a training workshop on the certification program for local treasurers on September 13 to 15, 2023 at the Best Western Hotel in Angeles City, Pampanga. The said activity marked a significant step towards the career development and professionalization of local treasurers in the country.

BLGF Executive Director Consolacion Q. Agcaoili expressed full support to the directives set forth by the Secretary of Finance. She emphasized the importance of developing a suitable curriculum tailored to the unique needs of local treasurers and pivotal to their professional growth.

“I am happy that we are fast-tracking all these activities for the ultimate professionalization of local treasurers. This is one of the marching orders of the Secretary of Finance for the BLGF”, Executive Director Agcaoili said during her opening message.

The Certification Program for Local Treasurers aims to enhance the competencies and knowledge base of local treasurers on fund and investment management in the Philippines. According to the Republic Act No. 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991, aspiring treasurers or assistant treasurers are required to possess a college degree, preferably in commerce, public administration, or law.

Executive Director Agcaoili further underscored that the professionalization program for local treasurers is a response to the growing demand from the local treasury professionals for a standardized and comprehensive curriculum.

“The role of a treasurer has evolved to become more increasingly complex as the fiscal advisor of local government units. Treasurers are supposed to be well-versed in public finance management and investment management as they play crucial roles in identifying sources of revenues to meet the multifaceted needs of LGUs”, Executive Director  Agcaoili emphasized.

The workshop witnessed the active participation of prominent figures who have been instrumental in supporting the BLGF’s reforms and initiatives to professionalize the local treasury operations. Among the distinguished attendees were PTA Chancellor Maria Teresa Habitan, former BLGF Deputy Executive Director Arne Tan, who now serves as the PRBRES Commissioner. Also in attendance were retired BLGF Regional Director Mercy Santos, retired City Treasurers Encarnacion Carling Santiago of Navotas, Metro Manila, and Delia Pararuan of Ilagan, Isabela. City Treasurer Edmar Luna of San Fernando, La Union, BLGF Regional Office MIMAROPA Financial Analyst IV, Ms. Grace Louie Boongaling, BLGF Regional Office No. V Local Treasury Operations Officer IV, Cynthia Garcia Faurillo, Provincial Treasurer Dino Villaruel of Aklan and Municipal Treasurer Plaridel Cupiado of Pinamalayan, Oriental Mindoro actively participated, enriching the discussions with their wealth of experience.