The Provincial Government of Davao de Oro is intensifying its adherence to the Department of the Interior and Local Government's (DILG) Full Disclosure Policy after failing to secure the Seal of Good Financial Housekeeping (SGFH) for 2026. The lapse resulted from late submission of required documents by the previous administration.
Missed Deadline Costs Province SGFH
During the Monday convocation at the Capitol on June 29, 2026, Provincial Internal Audit Office (PIAO) Officer-in-Charge Jeaneth Carnicer explained that the missed deadline directly impacted the province's eligibility. The SGFH is a prerequisite for the prestigious Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG), which unlocks access to national programs and development projects. It also serves as the basis for granting the Performance-Based Bonus (PBB) to provincial capitol employees.
Carnicer clarified that the deadline for the required documents was March 31, 2025, during the previous provincial administration, which failed to submit them on time. The delayed documents included the Annual Procurement Plan, Statement of Receipts and Expenditures, and Statement of Indebtedness, Payments, and Balances, which were submitted only on May 15, 2025. The Supplemental Procurement Plan was uploaded to the DILG portal on July 17, 2025, as the new administration took over.
New Administration Acts Quickly
"When Governor Mabanglo assumed office in July 2025, we immediately worked to submit these documents. However, we discovered that many requirements from the Gonzaga administration had been left unsubmitted," said Provincial Administrator Ivan Kleb Ulgasan. To prevent recurrence, Governor Raul Mabanglo has ordered strict compliance with the DILG Full Disclosure Policy. New protocols ensure that all financial documents are uploaded accurately and on time.
The DILG Full Disclosure Policy mandates all local government units to promote transparency by posting financial reports on an online portal and in three conspicuous public places: the Provincial Capitol bulletin board, municipal halls, and public transport terminals.
Ensuring Future Compliance
Ulgasan emphasized that through proper coordination and strict adherence to DILG timelines, the province will avoid non-compliance in the coming years. This will ensure both good governance and that capitol employees receive the bonuses they have earned. The provincial government remains committed to transparency and accountability, aiming to regain the SGFH and ultimately the SGLG.
