The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) reported that it has so far disbursed PHP139.366 billion, or 98.7 percent, of its budget allocation of PHP141.206 billion for the first half of fiscal year 2023. ‘We assure you that the DILG is prudent in utilizing the funds intended for their allocated purpose. The department ensures transparency in financial management following existing auditing rules and regulations,’ DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. said in a statement released Thursday. In his report during Wednesday’s budget hearing at the House of Representatives, Abalos said out of the PHP141.206 billion allocation for January to June, PHP123.508 billion was earmarked for Personnel Services for the entire DILG, including attached agencies; PHP15.642 billion for maintenance and other operating expenses (MOOE); and PHP2.055 billion for capital outlay. Under the General Appropriations Act (GAA) for 2023, the DILG was given a total budget of PHP253.404 billion. Of the amount, the department has received PHP241.682 billion from the Department of Budget and Management. Meanwhile, DILG Assistant Secretary for Administration, Finance, and Comptrollership Ester Aldana said they proposed a PHP7 billion budget for capital outlay for 2024. She said the amount would be allocated for information and technology equipment under the approved Information Systems Strategic Plan and the construction of DILG offices in Mimaropa, Western Visayas, and Cagayan Valley, as well as fire stations, jail facilities, police stations, classrooms, and dormitories. The funds will also be used for the purchase of furniture in the newly completed DILG regional and field offices, purchase of motor vehicles, and procurement of fire trucks
Source: Philippines News Agency
