Amenah F. Pangandaman

I had the honor of reconnecting with Hon. Rechie Valdez in an intimate Dinner at the residence of His Excellency David Hartman, Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines. We were also joined by Hon. Geraldine Roman of Bataan, a strong advocate for women’s rights and gender equality, whom I was happy to learn was a scholar of the late Senate President Edgardo Angara!

I first met Minister Rechie in Toronto last year when she spoke at the Philippine Economic Briefing and I was moved by her success story: she is the first Filipina to be elected to the Canadian Parliament. Today she is also Minister of Small Business in Canada and was here in the Philippines for a few days to develop and strengthen RP-Canadian relations that will help MSMEs both in Canada and in the Philippines.

This year marks 75 years of bilateral relations between Canada and the Philippines. I was pleased to learn that there are now a lot of Canadian businesses in the Philippines: Lululemon, Aldo, Telus, to name a few. Canada is also supporting the Philippine Coast Guard and our efforts at digitalization. I pray that our friendship grows deeper and stronger, towards our common Agenda for Prosperity! 🇵🇭🇨🇦

I become overly passionate every time I get to speak with the youth. On Friday, 19 July 2024, I had the honor to address the graduates of the Tarlac State University (TSU) during their 35th Commencement Exercises.

With the theme, “Navigating Tomorrow: A Journey in Futures Thinking,” this graduation ceremony highlights the importance of being proactive and adaptable in the face of an uncertain and rapidly changing world.

Heartfelt thanks to the whole TSU community - from the university officials, staff, to students - for the warm welcome. Karangalan ko ang maging bahagi ng inyong pagtatapos.

To the TSU Class of 2024, the ball is now in your hands. The spotlight is on you, and the world awaits your unique contributions. Remember, it is your vision, your passion, and your determination that will shape our country’s future.

Congratulations! Mabuhay kayong lahat! 🎓✨

Truly proud and honored to wear this beautiful handwoven Inaul Filipiniana Dress by Avel Bacudio at the .

‘Inaul’ – a fabric traditionally woven from silk and cotton – is a unique textile from Mindanao particularly in Maguindanao. The pattern in the terno is called Karanda, inspired by Maguindanaon brassware. Its purple color signifies Filipino royalty and nobility.

This dress embodies rich Mindanao heritage, reflects the vibrancy of today, and serves as a symbol of Filipino ingenuity. 🇵🇭

SONA-ready in Mindanao weave. 🇵🇭
Thanks Avel Bacudio
❤️

Productive meeting with Presidential Peace Adviser Secretary Carlito Galvez, Jr. at the DBM office to discuss several important topics.

Among our agenda were the preparations being undertaken in the run-up to the commemoration of the 10th anniversary of the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), as well as possibilities for future-oriented cooperation together with the Government of Japan which has been supporting the country's peace process.

Philippines is set to participate in the upcoming symposium for the 10th Anniversary of CAB, which will be held in Tokyo, Japan, in August to be organized by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The symposium aims to review the progress of the peace process, as well as the efforts of the National Government and the Bangsamoro Transition Authority over the past decade.

As Co-Chair of the Intergovernmental Relations Body (IGRB), I am looking forward to be part of this significant event to highlight our accomplishments and future steps toward attaining peace, stability, development, and growth in BARMM.

Met with the heads and representatives of the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) to discuss critical issues affecting the education sector.

Our discussions centered on clarifying certain concerns on the Performance-Based Bonus (PBB) in view of the issuance of EO No. 61 (s. 2024). We also discussed with them the proposed salary increase for government workers, including teachers.

Under the leadership of this Administration, we will work together with the DepEd, the CSC, as well as other concerned agencies, to address the plight of our teachers.

We also thank the ACT for their continued cooperation and trust. Asahan n'yo pong palaging bukas ang aming tanggapan para pakinggan ang inyong mga hinaing.

Outgoing Head of the Delegation of the EU to the Philippines H.E. Luc Veron paid a farewell courtesy call to the DBM office on Wednesday, 17 July 2024.

Thank you very much for your kind gesture and for the exceptional work over the years you spent in our country. While your time in the Philippines was a strong presence, I firmly believe that the EU-Philippine relations will continue and develop further.

Mabuhay at Salamat, Ambassador Veron!

Congratulations to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as you break ground for your new office building in Muntinlupa City!

It has been my honor to witness this monumental event with our gorgeous First Lady, Liza Araneta-Marcos.

I commend the men and women of the FDA, led by Director General Dr. Samuel Zacate, for your dedication, hard work, and tireless efforts to ensure every Filipino has access to safe and high-quality food, drugs, and medical devices.

I am eager to see how this site will transform and eventually house a new building—a hub where innovation flourishes and excellence prevails.

Mabuhay ang FDA!

Honored to witness the unveiling of the Philippine Pavilion project spearheaded by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB).

I am excited to be part of this activity as the TPB officially unveiled the Philippines' participation in the World Expo 2025 Osaka.

This is another significant step toward presenting on the world stage our country's rich culture and innovative creations.

Congratulations Secretary Christina Frasco and Chief Operating Officer Marga Nograles!! 🇵🇭

As we inch closer to submitting to Congress the President’s budget for next year, we convene for the 12th Monthly Economic Managers’ Meeting to conduct a review of the FY 2025 National Expenditure Program (NEP).

Anchored on the theme, “Agenda for Prosperity: Fulfilling the Needs and Aspirations of the Filipino People,” the proposed national budget for Fiscal Year 2025 represents a comprehensive framework aimed at enhancing the quality of life and economic well-being of every Filipino and community.

I thank my fellow economic managers, OSAPIEA Secretary Frederick Go, DOF Secretary Ralph Recto, NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan - represented by Usec.Rose - and BSP Deputy Governor Francis Dakila for another insightful meeting.

PFMCP goes to Region IV-A!

Since September 2023, we’ve been conducting the Public Financial Management Competency Program (PFMCP) to continuously promote good governance, financial accountability, and effective resource management among local government institutions.

At the PFMCP for Local Government Units (LGUs) held in Tagaytay City, I had the chance to reiterate the importance of the e-marketplace in reforming the government’s procurement process and ensuring the availability of common-use supplies and equipment directly from competent and reputable suppliers.

We are lucky that we have a President who is very hands on in directing its implementation as part of the New Government Procurement Act (NGPA). Sa katunayan, si Pangulong Bongbong Marcos po ang nakaisip na gawing parang Lazada o Shopee ang procurement.

Kaya sa Bagong Pilipinas, sama-sama po nating palakasin ang ating mga LGUs. Sama-sama nating itaguyod ang PFMCP sa iba’t ibang rehiyon sa bansa.

Happy to finally launch of the Green Green Green Program and to be part of the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the Roxas Boulevard Promenade.

In this day and age, it's important to develop greener, more vibrant, and well-connected public open spaces that will enhance the overall wellness of our communities.

With the launch of the Green Green Green Program and the inauguration of the Roxas Boulevard Promenade Project, we are able to take a huge step towards fulfilling the President’s goal of a Bagong Pilipinas, where every Filipino is committed to the improvement of life in the community, involved in contributing to the maintenance of a healthy ecology, and devoted in providing secure environments that will benefit future generations.

Thank you once again to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), partner LGUs, and private sector partners for making this event possible.

Let's go green! 🌳🌱🪴

I am honored to have my first-ever meeting with the Teacher's Dignity Coalition (TDC).

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated TDC chapter presidents and national Chairman, Benjo Basas, for passionately voicing your concerns about the welfare of our teachers.

The DBM's commitment to streamlining processes and ensuring timely distribution of benefits remains steadfast.

This historic dialogue marks the beginning of a collaborative effort to meet the needs of our educators and improve the systems that support them.

From Carig to Andrews campus real quick!

Still in Tuguegarao City to deliver another commencement speech, this time, for the Cagayan State University (CSU) - Andrews Campus Class of 2024.

Lagi na lang ata akong pinapaiyak ng mga estudyante ng CSU. Talagang may kurot lang po sa puso ko ang mga kwento ng pagsisikap ng mga CSU graduates na nakilala ko, tulad ni Ladi Lyn Jose - isang student mom. Bilib ako sa kung saan sya kumukuha ng lakas para pagsabaysabayin ang pag-aalaga ng anak, pagpasok sa eskwela at pagtatrabaho bilang tagalaba at tagalinis ng bahay para lang may pang-allowance. Pero ngayon, grumaduate s'ya sa kursong Business Administration at cm laude pa!

Sa bawat pambihirang istorya ng mga estudyante na nakikilala ko, at sa bawat kwento ng kanilang pagsisikap at laban sa buhay, doon po ako mas nagkakaroon ng rason na ipagpatuloy ang aming mga ginagawa para sa bayan.

To the CSU – Andrews Campus Class of 2024, congratulations to all of you! Remember, with grit, determination, and perseverance, you can surely achieve your dreams.

Hello Tuguegarao!

I've always loved going to graduation ceremonies because the moment I leave every campus, I become wiser, more inspired, and ignited to carry out change.

On Wednesday, 10 July 2024, I had the privilege to speak before the graduates of the Cagayan State University (CSU) - Carig Campus in Tuguegarao City.

Talaga pong nakakaantig ng puso at nakakabilib ang mga kwento sa buhay ng mga estudyante ng CSU. I was especially moved by the stories of Erika Soriano, who juggled multiple part-time jobs to support herself to school. And there was also Edanalyn Mabborang, who lost her dad in the middle of her internship. But, despite that, her indomitable spirit carried her through.

Indeed, while your skills and abilities may play a huge role, your attitude ultimately determines your success.

Hanga ako sa inyong lahat!

Once again, to the CSU – Carig Campus Class of 2024, congratulations! Make us proud.

Honored to speak in front of the 1,797 graduates of the Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT) in Lanao del Norte.

This graduation ceremony is extra special to me as I was accompanied by my parents. Ako po, kahit matagal na akong graduate, ang mga magulang ko ay laging nakasubaybay sa akin. Nandoon ang aking mahal na Nanay at Tatay para mapakinggan ang aking speech. Their continued guidance remains invaluable for me even to this day.

It was also very timely to remind our dear graduates to show their love and gratitude to their parents. They are the real MVPs!

Once again, congratulations to the MSU-IIT Class of 2024!

Reach for your dreams!

08 July 2024

Had the pleasure to meet United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) Senior Partnership Advisor Sirpa Jarvenpaa and Senior Project Manager Joy Jakosalem-Balane at the DBM Office to discuss possible partnerships in relation to the implementation of the New Government Procurement Act (NGPA) once enacted.

Our discussions involved UNOPS' proposed services and assistance in enhancing the implementation of the NGPA. These include assessing the current procurement process and its alignment with the NGPA, capacity building of procurement practitioners, and monitoring and evaluation practices.

As we eagerly await the passage of the proposed bill, we are also excited about the endless opportunities for collaboration with our development partners.

Para sa Pilipinas

05 July 2024

We have just engaged over 300 Public Financial Management (PFM) practitioners in our capacity-building program in Baguio City!

I especially want to thank the Association of Local Budget Administrator Inc. - Cordillera Administrative Region (ALBA-CAR) for partnering with us to conduct this ninth run of the PFM Competency Program (PFMCP) for Local Government Units.

Muli na naman po nating nabigyan ng kaukulang training at karagdagang kaalaman ang ating mga budget officer at PFM practitioner, lalo na dito sa CAR.

As I said, we will continue to work hard to enhance our PFM system. And that includes developing the capacities of our PFM practitioners— our frontliners in delivering quality services to the people we have sworn to serve.

Saludo po ako sa inyong lahat!

04 July 2024

Greetings all the way from the Summer Capital of the Philippines!

It was a great pleasure joining my DBM-Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) family in inaugurating its new office building in Baguio City.

Hindi lang po istruktura ang ipinatayo natin kundi isang simbolo ng ating layunin na mas pagbutihin ang pagsisilbi sa ating mga kababayan.

Apart from providing better service delivery, this modern facility shows our commitment to sustainability and resilience and will truly be a beacon of service and innovation in the Cordillera region.

Once again, congratulations to DBM-CAR, headed by Director Irene Gahid, for this wonderful achievement. Mas lalo pa nating pagbutihin ang paglilingkod sa ating mga kababayan.

04 July 2024

Maayong adlaw, Camiguin!

Nakakataba po ng puso ang mainit na pagsalubong sa atin ng lokal na pamahalaan ng Camiguin, sa pangunguna ni Congressman JJ Romualdo. Maraming salamat po sa pagtanggap sa amin dito sa inyong napakagandang probinsya.

It was a great pleasure to personally meet and speak before the members of the Mindanao League of Local Budget Officers Inc. Special mention to my DBM RO 10 family for also making this event possible. Tulad po ng aking sinabi, lahat po kayo ay may mahalagang papel bilang budget officers sa pag-unlad ng ating bayan.

Asahan n'yo po na dadalhin pa natin ang mga capacity-building initiative, katulad ng Public Financial Management Competency Program, sa iba’t ibang rehiyon sa buong bansa para patuloy na itaguyod ang good governance, financial accountability, at effective resource management.

Mabuhay ang lahat ng PFM practitioners sa Bagong Pilipinas!