By: Charish Dane V. Boniel

Butuan City - Established on November 3, 1998, in accordance with the policy of government decentralization through Department Order No. 98-21 issued by then DBM Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno, DBM Regional Office XIII has been a cornerstone of public financial management in the Region for the past 25 years.

The 25th anniversary celebration held on November 9, 2023, served as a testament to the organization's journey, showcasing not just a milestone but an expression of gratitude to officials and employees who played pivotal roles in RO operation. It was an occasion to foster unity and camaraderie among employees, both past and present as well as the active partners who have contributed to the achievement of DBM RO XIII for twenty five (25) years, bringing together current and former officials, employees, and esteemed guests. The celebration was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, namely:

Former DBM Trese Officials/Employees

ASec and Former RD Achilles Gerard C. Bravo        Ms. Thea T. Africa    

Former RD Joecel F. Obenza                                   Ms. MG Naza May F. Camarin

Former ARD Helen M. Dumayas                             Ms. Amy O. Corro     

Mr. Joseph Michael C. Lague                                  Mr. Ruchell J. Reyes

Caraga Association of State Universities and Colleges (CASUCs)

President Rolyn C. Daguil, Ph D.

President Nemesio G. Loayon, Ph D.

Caraga Budget Administrators Group, Inc. (CBAG)

PBO Jose Gregg O. Bandoy                               MBO Belinda Alcala            

PBO Ruby R. Furia                                             MBO Marilou M. Murio

PBO Shylou Grace O. Marcos                            MBO Gina Concon

The celebration commenced with a Mass Celebration, setting a spiritual tone for the day. This was followed by the blessing of the Office premises and Staff House, symbolizing the continued devotion and maintaining positive energy within the Organization and its premises.

In her welcome message, Regional Director Maria Fe D. Jagna,  expressed her sincere gratitude to the former officials and employees who responded to the Invitation as well as the distinguished partners who not only personally graced the event but also contributed to the success of the anniversary celebration.

DBM RO XIII was honored to receive messages from key officials, including Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman, Undersecretary Wilford Will L. Wong, Assistant Secretary Achilles Gerard C. Bravo, Former RD Joecel F. Obenza, and Former ARD Helen M. Dumayas.  Also, Caraga Budget Administrators Group, Inc. and Caraga Association of SUCs gave their well wishes, represented by Surigao del Sur PBO Jose Gregg Bandoy and Surigao del Norte State University President Gregorio Z. Gamboa, Jr. Ph.D, respectively. Additionally, former DBM officials and employees who were not able to attend the event physically sent their warm greetings through audio-visual messages in the spirit of camaraderie that transcended time and distance.

Audio visuals were also shown including DBM Trese’s History and “Balik-Tanaw”, showing images of the office building inauguration, special occasions, and official engagements over the past 25 years.

The "Panagtapok!" stage came alive with a myriad of talents as former and current employees showcased their talents, from musical performances to dance routines. Also, Former Regional Director Joecel Obenza, one of the key figures in DBM RO XIII history, surprised the attendees with a special production number that uplifted spirits and added an extra layer of joy to the celebration. The surprise production number by RD Joecel Obenza became a memorable moment, proving not only his leadership skills but also his ability to connect with the RO on a personal level.

Assistant Regional Director Jenneth C. Partosa capped the event by recognizing the dedicated efforts of the men and women who have been the backbone of DBM RO 13. She also stressed that the tireless works of the officials and employees from top leadership to every staff member have been instrumental in navigating complex challenges, embracing innovation and consistently delivering exceptional results, earning the trust and respect of clients and partners of DBM RO XIII.