The Department of Budget and Management Regional Office XIII (DBM RO XIII) officially launched the Open Government Partnership (OGP) H.I.T.S.A.S. (Harmonization, Inclusivity, Transparency, Sustainability, Accountability, and Strategy) Initiative during a regional activity attended by Local Chief Executives (LCEs) and other LGU personnel from across the Caraga Region last Wednesday, July 1, 2026 in Butuan City.

The H.I.T.S.A.S. Initiative was introduced in response to the operational and financial challenges confronting many Local Economic Enterprises (LEEs). Through capacity development, technology innovation, and digitalization, the initiative seeks to strengthen LEEs as sustainable sources of local revenue, improve the delivery of essential public services, and enhance the fiscal resilience of Local Government Units (LGUs).

In her opening message, Regional Director Maria Fe Jagna underscored DBM RO XIII's commitment to advancing innovative, transparent, and sustainable local governance through the H.I.T.S.A.S. Initiative. She acknowledged the invaluable partnership of Caraga State University (CarSU), under the leadership of SUC President Rolyn Daguil, for its technical expertise and steadfast support in the development of the H.I.T.S.A.S. digital system, a key component in the initiative's implementation. Moving forward, CarSu will provide a dynamic learning and development program for the growing needs of LEE Stakeholders in and out of Region 13.

The activity was enriched by the participation of Ms. Allaiyah Kriszel C. Durante from the OGP Program Management Office of DBM who presented the rationale behind the H.I.T.S.A.S. Initiative within the framework of the National Open Government Partnership (OGP). The presentation emphasized the initiative's contribution to promoting transparency, accountability, participatory governance, and innovation in local public administration.  Regional Initiatives across the country were also showcased for better appreciation of the OGP objectives.

MS. DURANTE OGP-PMO

MR. DAGDAG LGRCB, DBM

Mr. Ryan Dagdag, Division Chief of DBM's Local Government and Regional Coordination Bureau (LGRCB), presented  latest updates on the FY 2026 Local Government Support Fund (LGSF), highlighting funding opportunities and priority programs that support local development initiatives, strengthen LGU capacities, and advance sustainable local economic growth. He responded to long standing and major concerns on LGSF submissions and availment raised by Local Chief Executives and Officials.

PRESIDENT DAGUIL CarSU

SP UDARBE BUTUAN CITY

MAYOR BATIANCILA CAGWAIT, SURIGAO DEL SUR

Messages of support were delivered by Caraga State University President Rolyn C. Daguil, Hon. Dendo G. Udarbe, representing the City Government of Butuan, and Hon. Mayor Glen B. Batiancila of Cagwait, Surigao del Sur. In their respective messages, they expressed their strong commitment to the objectives of the H.I.T.S.A.S. Initiative and recognized its potential to strengthen local governance through innovation, collaboration, and sustainable public financial management. Their unwavering support and shared vision serve as a strong foundation for the successful implementation and long-term sustainability of this significant regional initiative.

The activity concluded with an open forum, providing participants with the opportunity to exchange insights, raise concerns, and discuss strategies for the effective implementation of the H.I.T.S.A.S. Initiative and the FY 2026 LGSF. The successful launch of H.I.T.S.A.S. initiative marks a significant milestone in DBM RO XIII's continuing efforts to promote PFM and OGP principles through digital transformation, sound fiscal governance, and sustainable local development throughout Caraga Region.

PBO BORDAJE AGUSAN DEL SUR