The said seminar cum workshop aims to familiarize the participants with the shift from annual obligation-based budgeting system to cash-based budgeting system starting next year.

Under the latter, all government programs and projects budgeted for the fiscal year should be implemented and delivered within the same fiscal year. Goods and services delivered, inspected, and accepted until the end of the fiscal year will be settled within the same year, up to the three-month period following the end of the fiscal year, otherwise known as the Extended Payment Period (EPP).

It is believed that the shift is necessary to promote discipline among agencies, raise the credibility of the government with its suppliers and contractors, support the government’s expansionary policy, and modernize the budgeting system at par to international standards.

Regional Director Arnel V. de Mesa showed strong support to the shift. “We should ready ourselves by being well-informed. Let’s take this seminar seriously, be focused, and be reminded that we are doing this for our farmers to deliver our interventions more effectively and efficiently,” he said.

Among the speakers/presenters were Editha T. Anievas of Bureau of the Treasury; Felix I. Ramos and Juvylee C. Obice of Administrative and Finance Division; Rhodora Ferrera, Grover Dino, and Gloria Palmaria of Budget Section; Anthony O. Mercado of Accounting Section; and the report officers of banner programs.