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Razo underscores significance of FMS in KALAHI-CIDSS operation
Iloilo City- DSWD 6-OIC Director Arwin Razo emphasized the importance of the Financial Management System (FMS) utilized by Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Service (KALAHI-CIDSS) in implementing community projects for nearly two decades.
Razo made the statement during the opening of the four-day National Liquidation Workshop on Tuesday. One hundred fifty KALAHI-CIDSS staff from all over the country participated in this national activity.
The participants included Municipal Financial Analysts, Financial Analysts II, Financial Analysts III, and Supervising Administrative Officers.
“One of the positive features of KALAHI-CIDSS is the efficient Financial Management System and its responsive policies, which have contributed to achieving the Program’s objectives,” Razo stated.
Razo mentioned that the policies regarding the proper allocation of government funds for community-based projects have led to the empowerment of the communities. “By imparting technical knowledge, we are enabling individuals to become certified accountants and certified bookkeepers.”
In KALAHI-CIDSS, community volunteers were trained in simple bookkeeping, auditing, and inventory management in their respective barangays.
They were also taught how to ensure internal control over the disbursement of funds. Each community has its account where the grants are directly deposited.
With limited funds, the agency had optimized government resources using existing fiduciary measures, he said.
The reconciliation of financial reports is crucial in the closure of the completion of the National Community-Driven Development Program-Additional Financing.
It will also mark the completion of the Program in preparation for the successor program, the Panahon ng Pagkilos. “I hope that it will be approved by the Philippine government and development partners,” Razo said.
The reconciliation of the financial reports from year to year is a standard process when the program is attempting to progress, he added.# Photos by: Clarriza Firmalino/IO II
