DBM RO XIII Kicks Off 2024 with a Boodle Fight

To mark the commencement of the new year, the Department of Budget and Management Regional Office XIII (DBM RO XIII) reflected on the triumphs of 2023 and propelled itself forward with unwavering optimism and a unified spirit. Regional Director Maria Fe D. Jagna and Assistant Regional Director Jenneth C. Partosa were lauded for their steadfast leadership, while heartfelt appreciation was extended to the entire DBM RO XIII staff for their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts.

Recalling the milestones of the preceding year, which included the PRIME-HRM Level 2 Maturity award and seamless execution of various events, DBM RO XIII displayed indomitable resilience in surmounting challenges and adversities. With a resolute commitment to leaving behind any setbacks and embracing the invaluable lessons learned, DBM RO XIII welcomed 2024 with a steadfast resolve to foster unity and forge  towards greater heights.

The first staff meeting of the year was highlighted by the traditional "Boodle Fight." Derived from the rich tapestry of Filipino culture and inspired by its roots in the military, the Boodle Fight epitomizes communal dining, where individuals come together to partake in a feast served without utensils, symbolizing solidarity, equality, and shared camaraderie. More than a mere culinary indulgence, the Boodle Fight embodies the ethos of teamwork and mutual support, as exemplified by the collaborative efforts of the staff in organizing and preparing the feast.

The Boodle fight feast served as a poignant inauguration for DBM RO XIII in 2024, encapsulating the essence of unity, cooperation, and collective triumph that will serve as guiding beacons throughout the year.

As DBM RO XIII showcased the cherished "Boodle Fight Tradition," it embraced its commitment with camaraderie, collaboration, and continued accomplishments, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to being "One Team, One Family, One DBM TRESE."

Concluding the Boodle Fight festivities, Mr. Oliver Wendell Tiu, the Chief Administrative Officer, expressed profound gratitude to the men and women of DBM RO XIII for their invaluable contributions and unwavering dedication, thereby setting an uplifting tone for the journey ahead.

“Hisgutanay” 2024: Collaborative Entrance Conference

On January 17, 2024, the DBM RO XIII conducted its first Hisgutanay for 2024 with Caraga State University (CSU) and North Eastern Mindanao State University (NEMSU). This initiative underscored the commitment to consistent collaboration between DBM RO XIII and client state universities, with focus on enhancing budget preparation, execution, and accountability.

The conference featured a comprehensive agenda designed to address pertinent issues related to budget preparation, execution, and accountability. 

It was lauded for the technical assistance to SUCS to ensure that technical learnings will translate to accurate budget proposals and reports, timely submission of reports and minimized delay in the processing of their requests. 

FY 2024 Budget Execution Forum and FY 2025 Pre-Budget Preparation Technical Review for Agusan del Sur State College of Agriculture and Technology (ASSCAT)

In a landmark event held on January 16, 2024, at Beedys Hall, Hotel Oazis in Butuan City, Local Water Districts (LWDs) in Caraga Region came together with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) RO XIII for an Orientation on the Preparation and Submission of the Corporate Operating Budget (COB) for Fiscal Year 2024 and thereafter. The program marked a significant milestone in the collaboration between DBM RO XIII and all LWDs in Caraga Region.

The orientation began with a warm welcome from Mr. Eulogio D. Milla, General Manager of Tandag City Water District and the President of Surigao del Sur Water Districts Association, setting a collaborative and engaging tone for the day. Mr. Milla emphasized the significance of the event in fostering cooperation between LWDs and the DBM Caraga. Regional Director Maria Fe D. Jagna’s insightful overview highlighted the historical significance of the event. For the first time, DBM Caraga and LWDs met in person after the pandemic, marking a pivotal moment in collaborative engagement.. Additionally, RD Jagna underlined that it was the inaugural instance of DBM reviewing the Corporate Operating Budgets of LWDs.

The first resource person, Mr. Paul A. Abarca, Chief Budget and Management Specialist of DBM Caraga, navigated through the intricacies of Corporate Budget Circular No. 25. This discussion equipped participants with a comprehensive understanding of the guidelines shaping the preparation and submission of Corporate Operating Budgets for FY 2024 and beyond. This was followed by Mr. Elvin D. Chatto, Chief Budget and Management Specialist of DBM Caraga where he guided participants through the intricacies of budget preparation forms and instructions. This session equipped attendees with the tools and knowledge necessary to navigate the budgetary process effectively. Lastly, Ms. Edna P. Jamolin, Chief Budget and Management Specialist of DBM Caraga, shed light on the checklist of requirements for DBM key processes related to LWDs. Her discussion clarified the documentation and steps crucial for a seamless submission process.

During the open forum, the LWD and DBM interactive session enhanced the understanding of the guidelines and addressed specific concerns of the participants.

In the closing message of Assistant Regional Director (ARD) Jenneth C. Partosa, she emphasized the collaborative effort required for successful budget submissions and encouraged continued dialogue between DBM Caraga and LWDs.

The orientation conducted by DBM Caraga was not merely an informative session; it was a landmark event that fostered collaboration, transparency, and understanding between regulatory bodies and LWDs. As LWDs gear up to prepare and submit their COBs for FY 2024, the knowledge gained from this orientation is set to fortify financial management practices, ensuring sustainable and efficient water services for communities in the Caraga region.

Mastering the Art of Professionalism: A DBM RO XIII In-House Training Facilitation Skills and Power Dressing

In today's dynamic and competitive professional landscape, honing both soft and hard skills is imperative. A Training on Facilitation Skills, Power Dressing, and Grooming proved to be a transformative experience for DBM RO XIII, equipping participants with essential tools to thrive in diverse professional environments.
Dr. Erwin B. Brry of the North Eastern Mindanao State University discussed the topic of Facilitation skills. This skill, often overlooked yet indispensable, took center stage in this comprehensive program. It delved into the nuances of effective communication, active listening, and conflict resolution. Through interactive workshops, attendees gained practical insights into guiding group discussions, managing diverse perspectives, and fostering collaboration. Armed with newfound confidence, they emerged better facilitators capable of steering teams toward shared goals.

But mastering the art of professionalism extends beyond verbal prowess. Understanding the power of visual communication, DBM RO XIII participants immersed themselves in the intricacies of power dressing and grooming. Led by Ms. Liezel R. Ugay of the North Eastern Mindanao State University, the participants uncovered the transformative impact of attire and appearance in shaping perceptions and commanding respect. From selecting the perfect ensemble to mastering grooming techniques, attendees learned to harness their personal style as a tool for success.

Indeed, the in-house training on Facilitation Skills and Power Dressing is a testament to the organization's commitment to fostering holistic professional development. By investing in its workforce's growth, DBM RO XIII cultivates a culture of excellence as well as empower individuals to thrive in an ever-evolving professional landscape.

FY 2025 Regional Budget Forum

The "FY 2025 Regional Budget Forum" was a pivotal initiative in line with National Budget Memorandum (NBM) No. 149, dated December 27, 2023, which underscores the imperative for an inclusive and transparent budgeting process. The forum fostered a collaborative environment between Agency Regional Offices (AROs) and the Regional Development Council (RDC), ensuring that regional development priorities are seamlessly integrated into the fiscal year 2025 budget proposals. By adhering to the guidelines and strategic direction set forth in NBM No. 149, the forum contributed to the formulation of a responsive and equitable national budget that catalyzes sustainable regional growth and development.

The objectives of the forum included:

1. the identification and alignment of regional budgetary priorities with the national development agenda;
2. the enhancement of inter-agency coordination and stakeholder engagement to promote efficient allocation of resources; and
3. the facilitation of knowledge sharing and capacity building to reinforce the competencies of key players during budget preparation.

DBM RO XIII, together with the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) spearheaded the activity last January 30, 2024 and was participated by a total of  thirty-seven (37) agencies, which consisted of regional line agencies, state universities and colleges (SUC) and representatives from the public sector. NEDA played an essential role in the forum, showcasing its profound significance by elucidating the Regional Development Council (RDC) Review Guidelines for FY 2025 Agency/SUC Budget Proposals. Its presentation meticulously delineated the diverse evaluation criteria crucial for the approval and consideration of budget proposals by the RDC, thereby underscoring NEDA's indispensable contribution to the fiscal decision-making process, ensuring that proposals are aligned with the development plans and investment programs of the region.

DBM RO XIII Staff presented the following:

1. Overview of the FY 2025 Budget Preparation;
2. Reminders in the Preparation of Budget Proposals;
3. Updates in the Budget Preparation Forms and Instructions; and
4. Submission Requirements and the Budget Preparation Calendar

Regional Director Maria Fe D. Jagna of DBM RO XIII emphasized that submitted budget proposals should be aligned with the budget priorities framework and the President Marcos government’s development goals and socioeconomic agenda.

In conclusion, the National Budget is about the people we serve, with the vision to build a Bagong Pilipinas where every Filipino can thrive and prosper.